[as.cen.dant] also as.cen.dent n [ME ascendent, fr. ML ascendent-, ascendens, fr. L, prp. of ascendere] (14c) 1: the point of the ecliptic or degree of the zodiac that rises above the eastern horizon at any moment
2: a state or position of dominant power or importance
3: a lineal or collateral relative in the ascending line
[2]ascendant also ascendent adj (1591) 1 a: moving upward: rising b: directed upward "an ~ stem"
2. a: superior b: dominant -- as.cen.dant.ly adv