pretendant

noun

pre·​tend·​ant

-dənt

plural -s

: pretender, claimant

Word History

Etymology

Middle French, from pretendant, present participle of pretendre to claim, aspire, from Latin praetendere

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now