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gargoyle

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The definition of a gargoyle is a grotesquely carved figure or face that is often used as a waterspout on a building by extending it off the gutter of the building to allow for water to be directed away from the wall.

(noun)

The carved figures on the gutters atNotre Dame cathedral in France are an example of gargoyles.

See gargoyle in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

a waterspout, usually in the form of a grotesquely carved animal or fantastic creature, projecting from the gutter of a building
a projecting ornament (on a building) that looks like this
a person with grotesque features

Origin: ME gargule, throat < OFr gargouille: see gargle

Related Forms:

gargoyled adjective

See gargoyle in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

A roof spout in the form of a grotesque or fantastic creature projecting from a gutter to carry rainwater clear of the wall.
A grotesque ornamental figure or projection.
A person of bizarre or grotesque appearance.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English gargoile

Origin: , from Old French gargole, gargouille, throat, waterspout

Related Forms: