Gargoyle - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A gargoyle is a carved stone grotesque, often with a spout designed to convey water from a roof, commonly found on old buildings, especially churches. They serve both decorative and functional purposes.
Definition:
A grotesque carved figure, often on a building, serving as a spout to drain water from roofs.
Synonyms:
grotesque, waterspout, rainspout
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
angel, cherub
Common Collocations:
stone gargoyle, cathedral gargoyle, medieval gargoyle
Derivatives:
gargoyled, gargoylesque
Usage Tips:
Use "gargoyle" to describe decorative but functional architectural sculptures, often found on old churches or buildings.
Common Phrases:
"gargoyle grin, " "gargoyle perched, " "gargoyle's stare"
Etymology:
From Old French "gargouille," meaning throat or gullet, referring to the water-spouting function.
Examples:
- 1. The gargoyle on the church roof scared the children.
- 2. She admired the intricate details of the stone gargoyle.
- 3. Rainwater poured from the gargoyle’s mouth during the storm.
- 4. The old castle was decorated with menacing gargoyles.