The Collaborative International Dictionary
Alaunt \A*launt"\, n.
See Alan. [Obs.]
--Chaucer.
Wiktionary
n. A type of extinct breed of domesticated dog, related to the modern bulldog and mastiff, or modern breeds created in imitation of it.
Wikipedia
The Alaunt is an extinct breed of dog, with the original breed having existed in central Asia and Europe from ancient times through the 17th century. The Alaunt breed had three distinct phenotypes: Alaunt Veantre, Alaunt Boucherie and the Alaunt Gentile. They all were large, short coated dogs of varying head-types. The former two resembled the molosser type dogs much like the present-day Dogo Argentino or like the Caucasian Shepherd Dog except with short hair and a mesocephalic head which made them excellent large-game hunters. The Alaunt was originally bred by the Alani tribes, the nomads of Indo-European Sarmatian ancestry who spoke an Iranian language. The Alans were known as superb warriors, herdsmen, and breeders of horses and dogs. The Alans bred their dogs for work and developed different strains within the breed for specific duties. The breed was further developed in Spain, France, Germany, England, and in Italy.
Usage examples of "alaunt".
My nurse said the Alaunt were a pack of enchanted hounds who hunted down humans.
In the instant before the arrow struck, the Alaunt twisted and leaped, snatching the arrow out of the air in his teeth.
Azhure warily reached out a hand and touched the Alaunt on its massive forehead.
Veremund said bluntly, and the three Alaunt about the fire stirred uncomfortably, their dreams disturbed with dark memories.
After all, the Alaunt were hunting hounds and their master had wielded the Wolven.
As one, the Alaunt rose from their positions and padded silently after her.
The Alaunt were a well-trained, well-disciplined pack, and answered instantly whenever Azhure spoke to them.
Belial introduced Magariz to Azhure, then all were interrupted by the sound of barking, and they turned to watch the Alaunt hounds pacing solemnly across the bridge.
She was more noted for her skill at archery and the constant shadows of three or more of the Alaunt hounds at her heels.
Two of the other Alaunt hounds joined her, but she waved the rest back.
The three Alaunt were waiting patiently by the gateway to the Keep, and Azhure swung into the saddle.
Azhure whistled softly and the fifteen Alaunt stepped forward from the shadows to encircle Nevelon and his men.
Axis, not only because of the Wolven and the Alaunt, but also because none had seen Axis or his army.
Five of the Alaunt hounds were stretched out in front of Azhure, soaking up the warmth of the fire.
The rest of the Alaunt had been relegated to the kitchens while both MorningStar and StarDrifter fretted outside in the corridor.