Dictionary
gargoyle
noun gar·goyle \ˈgär-ˌgȯi(-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 \-ˌgȯi(-ə)ld\ adjective
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Origin of GARGOYLE
Middle English gargule, gargoyl, from Old French gargoule
First Known Use: 13th century
Other Architecture Terms
GARGOYLED Defined for Kids
gargoyle
noun gar·goyle \ˈgär-ˌgȯil\
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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