The Collaborative International Dictionary
Volant piece
Volant \Vo"lant\ (?; 277), a. [L. volans, -antis, p. pr. of volare to fly: cf. F. volant.]
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Passing through the air upon wings, or as if upon wings; flying; hence, passing from place to place; current.
English silver now was current, and our gold volant in the pope's court.
--Fuller. Nimble; light and quick; active; rapid. ``His volant touch.''
--Milton.-
(Her.) Represented as flying, or having the wings spread; as, an eagle volant.
Volant piece (Anc. Armor), an adjustable piece of armor, for guarding the throat, etc., in a joust.
Wiktionary
volant piece
n. An adjustable piece of armour for guarding the throat, etc. during jousting.