Gargoyle

Pronunciation: /ˈɡɑrˌɡɔɪl/

Definitions of gargoyle

noun a grotesque carved human or animal face or figure projecting from the gutter of a building, typically acting as a spout to carry water clear of a wall

Example Sentences

A1 The gargoyle sat atop the old church, watching over the village.

A2 Tourists were amazed by the intricate details of the gargoyle on the cathedral.

B1 Legend has it that the gargoyle comes to life at night and flies around the town.

B2 The gargoyle's menacing appearance added to the eerie atmosphere of the abandoned castle.

C1 Scholars have debated the symbolism behind the placement of gargoyles on Gothic architecture.

C2 The gargoyle's grotesque features were expertly carved by a skilled stonemason.

Examples of gargoyle in a Sentence

formal The gargoyle perched on the edge of the cathedral, overseeing the city below.

informal Check out that creepy gargoyle statue on top of the building!

slang That gargoyle looks like it's straight out of a horror movie.

figurative Her stern expression made her look like a gargoyle, ready to pounce on anyone who crossed her path.

Grammatical Forms of gargoyle

• past tense: gargoyled
• plural: gargoyles
• comparative: more gargoyle
• superlative: most gargoyle
• present tense: gargoyles
• future tense: will gargoyle
• perfect tense: have gargoyled
• continuous tense: is gargoyling
• singular: gargoyle
• positive degree: gargoyle
• infinitive: to gargoyle
• gerund: gargoyling
• participle: gargoyled

Origin and Evolution of gargoyle

First Known Use: 1250 year

Language of Origin: Old French/Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'gargoyle' originated from the Old French word 'gargouille' which means throat or gullet. It is derived from the Latin word 'gurgulio' which also means throat.

Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe the carved water spouts on buildings, the term 'gargoyle' has evolved to also refer to any grotesque figure used for decorative purposes, often depicting mythical creatures or monsters.