GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

Found 3 definitions

1.       
    Griffin (?), Griffon (?),  n. [OE. griffin, griffon, griffoun, F. griffon, fr. L. gryphus, equiv to gryps, Gr. ; -- so called because of the hooked beak, and akin to γρυπός curved, hook-nosed.]
   
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   1. (Myth.) A fabulous monster, half lion and half eagle. It is often represented in Grecian and Roman works of art.
   
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   2. (Her.) A representation of this creature as an heraldic charge.
   
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   3. (Zool.) A species of large vulture (Gyps fulvus) found in the mountainous parts of Southern Europe, North Africa, and Asia Minor; -- called also gripe, and grype. It is supposed to be the “eagle” of the Bible. The bearded griffin is the lammergeir. [Written also gryphon.]
   
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   4. An English early apple.
   
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2.       
   Grype (?), v. t. To gripe. [Obs.] See Gripe.  Spenser.
   
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3.       
   Grype, n. [Gr. γρύφ, γρυπός, griffin. See Griffin.] (Zool.) A vulture; the griffin. [Written also gripe.] [Obs.]
   
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