natant

adjective

na·tant | \ ˈnā-tᵊnt

How to pronounce natant (audio)

\

Definition of natant

: swimming or floating in water natant decapods

Going Swimmingly With Natant

Natant and the smattering of other words birthed in the waters of Latin natare, meaning "to swim," can sound overly formal in many contexts. Rather than use the word natatorium, for example, we're more likely to refer simply to an indoor swimming pool. Similarly, instead of complimenting a friend's skills in natation, you're probably more apt to tell her she's a good swimmer. The common German-derived word swimming suits most of us just fine. Science, though, often prefers Latin, which is why you're most likely to encounter natare words in scientific contexts.

Keep scrolling for more

Learn More about natant

Listen to Our Podcast about natant

Theme music by Joshua Stamper ©2006 New Jerusalem Music/ASCAP

Dictionary Entries near natant

Statistics for natant

Look-up Popularity

Time Traveler for natant

The first known use of natant was in the 15th century

See more words from the same century

WORD OF THE DAY

hamartia

a flaw that causes the downfall of a hero

Test Your Vocabulary

A Green Quiz

What is the best definition of green-eyed monster?

How Strong Is Your Vocabulary?

Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!

TAKE THE QUIZ

SCRABBLE® Sprint

Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.

TAKE THE QUIZ

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games