[a. F. avouant, pr. pple. (used subst.) of avouer: see AVOW v.1] In Law, A challenger; a person making cognizance, or admitting that he distrained goods belonging to another, but maintaining his right to do so.
1529. Act 21 Hen. VIII., xix. § 2. Every avowaunt and every other person … that make any such avowrie.
1598. Kitchin, Courts Leet, etc. (1675), 214. Then the Avowant shall recover damages.
1768. Blackstone, Comm., III. 147. Which bond shall be assigned to the avowant or person making cognizance.
1816. Taunton, Law Rep., VI. 526. An avowant in replevin for rent was obliged to shew a title in fee.
