griffin (redirected from gryphon)

Griffin, city, United States

Griffin, city (1990 pop. 21,347), seat of Spalding co., W central Ga., in a farm and cotton area increasingly integrated into metropolitan Atlanta's economy; inc. 1843. The city's textile and clothing industries are in decline; other manufactures include leather, plastics, and transportation equipment. Nearby is a state agricultural station.

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griffin, legendary creature

griffin, in ancient and medieval legend, creature with the head and wings of an eagle and the body of a lion. Its name also appears as griffon and gryphon. The griffin originated in ancient Middle Eastern legend and is often found in Persian sculpture and the decorative arts. Although its significance is obscure, it is often thought to have been a protective symbol, representing strength and vigilance.

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griffin¹, griffon, gryphon

a winged monster with an eagle-like head and the body of a lion

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griffin²

a newcomer to the Orient, esp one from W Europe

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griffin

fabulous animal, part eagle, part lion. [Gk. Myth. and Art: Hall, 143; Ital. Lit.: Purgatory]

See : Monsters