griffin

grif-fin · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A mythical creature with the head and wings of an eagle and the body of a lion.

  2. 2.

    A surname of Welsh origin (also spelled Griffith).

Forms

plural: griffins

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    griffin in heraldry — a symbol of strength and vigilance

Related words

See also: eagle, lion, mythology
Synonyms: griffon, gryphon

Etymology

From Old French grifon, from Latin gryphus, from Greek gryps ("curved, hook-nosed"), referring to the creature's beak. In Greek mythology, griffins were guardians of gold.