{ Grif″fin (?), Grif″fon (?), } 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.]
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. (Zoöl.) 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.