Natant \Na"tant\, a. [L. natans, -antis, from swim, v. intens. fr. nare to swim: cf. F. natant.] 1. (Bot.) Floating in water, as the leaves of water lilies, or submersed, as those of many aquatic plants. [1913 Webster] 2. (Her.) Placed horizontally across the field, as if swimming toward the dexter side; said of all sorts of fishes except the flying fish. [1913 Webster]