noun
gargoyle
GAR-goyl/ˈɡɑːrɡɔɪl/
A grotesque carved figure on a building, often serving as a waterspout.
A stone gargoyle channels rainwater away from the old church wall.
Etymology
The Old French word meant both “throat” and “carved downspout.” The grotesque figure was originally a rain spout whose projecting mouth carried water away from a building’s walls.
In context
In Gothic cathedral architecture, a gargoyle is a carved stone figure that has a practical and symbolic role.
More examples
- Two gargoyles with twisted faces overlook the courtyard.
- Rain pours from the gargoyle's open mouth.
- Workers carefully restore the damaged gargoyle on the tower.
Forms
gargoyle · gargoyles