n. (also pendent) 1 a hanging jewel etc., esp. one attached to a necklace, bracelet, etc. 2 a light fitting, ornament, etc., hanging from a ceiling. 3 Naut. a a short rope hanging from the head of a mast etc., used for attaching tackles. b = PENNANT 1. 4 the shank and ring of a pocket-watch by which it is suspended. 5 (usu. foll. by to) a match, companion, parallel, complement, etc.
[ ME f. OF f. pendre hang f. L pendere ]