adjective
rampant
Shown rearing on the hind legs in heraldry.
The coat of arms features a lion rampant.
Etymology
French rampant means climbing or rearing. Heraldry fixes that posture as an animal raised on its hind legs, usually with its forelegs lifted.
More examples
- Two lions rampant support the shield in the royal arms.
- She sketches a bear rampant for the family crest.
- The banner shows a red griffin rampant on gold.
Forms
rampant
Similar words
- rearing
- Describes rising onto the hind legs, not specifically heraldic depiction.