Fausant

/ˈfɔːzənt/ noun

Definition

In heraldry, a young rabbit or coney (wild rabbit), particularly when depicted in coat-of-arms designs.

Etymology

From Old French fausant or faisant, possibly derived from Latin lepus or related to Old French ferre. The exact etymology is debated, but it was used specifically in heraldic terminology for juvenile rabbits.

Kelly Says

Medieval heralds were incredibly specific: a fausant was not just any rabbit, but specifically a young one, and you had better get it right on your family crest or you'd be mocked for not understanding proper heraldic language!

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