{ As*cend"ant (&?;), As*cend"ent (&?;), } a. 1. Rising toward the zenith; above the horizon.

The constellation . . . about that time ascendant.
Browne.

2. Rising; ascending. Ruskin.

3. Superior; surpassing; ruling.

An ascendant spirit over him.
South.

The ascendant community obtained a surplus of wealth.
J. S. Mill.

Without some power of persuading or confuting, of defending himself against accusations, . . . no man could possibly hold an ascendent position.
Grote.