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Webster 1913 Edition
Griffon
{
Grif′fin
,Grif′fon
, }Noun.
[OE.
griffin
, griffon
, griffoun
, F. griffon
, fr. L. gryphus
, equiv to gryps
, Gr. [GREEK]; – so called because of the hooked beak, and akin to γρυπόσ
curved, hook-nosed.] 1.
(Myth.)
A fabulous monster, half lion and half eagle. It is often represented in Grecian and Roman works of art.
2.
(Her.)
A representation of this creature as an heraldic charge.
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
.] 4.
An English early apple.
Webster 1828 Edition
Griffon
GRIF'FON
,Noun.
In the natural history of the ancients, an imaginary animal said to be generated between the lion and eagle. It is represented with four legs, wings and a beak, the upper part resembling an eagle, and the lower part a lion. This animal was supposed to watch over mines of gold and hidden treasures, and was consecrated to the sun. The figure of the griffon is seen on ancient medals, and is still borne in coat-armor. It is also an ornament of Greek architecture.