Dictionary

gargoyle

noun gar·goyle \ˈgär-ˌgi(-ə)l\

: a strange or ugly human or animal figure that sticks out from the roof of a building (such as a church)

Full Definition of GARGOYLE

1
a :  a spout in the form of a grotesque human or animal figure projecting from a roof gutter to throw rainwater clear of a building
b :  a grotesquely carved figure
2
:  a person with an ugly face
gar·goyled \-ˌgi(-ə)ld\ adjective
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Illustration of GARGOYLE

Origin of GARGOYLE

Middle English gargule, gargoyl, from Old French gargoule
First Known Use: 13th century

Other Architecture Terms

buttress, casita, cornice, fanlight, garret, lintel, parapet, pilaster, plinth
GARGOYLED Defined for Kids

gargoyle

noun gar·goyle \ˈgär-ˌgil\

Definition of GARGOYLE for Kids

:  a strange or frightening human or animal figure that sticks out from the roof of a building and often serves as a waterspout

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