griffin

The griffin is a legendary creature with the body of a lion and the head, wings, and often talons of an eagle. In most depictions, the lion's strength, the eagle's vigilance and swiftness combine. The griffin is typically portrayed as a powerful guardian of treasure and priceless possessions.

Etymology: The name griffin derives from the Old French griffon, from Latin gryphus, itself from Greek gryphos meaning "curved" or "hooked," referring to the beak. Variants include griffon, griffin, gryphon. In some traditions the front limbs are eagle talons, sometimes the paws are those of a lion.

Historical and cultural context: Griffins appear in ancient Near Eastern and Mediterranean art, later in Greco-Roman and medieval European bestiaries, heraldry and architecture. They symbolize strength, courage, and protection, and are often shown guarding gold or sacred sites. Their dual animal nature has been interpreted as uniting the king of beasts and the king of birds.

In modern times: The griffin remains popular in fantasy literature, role-playing games, films, and art, appearing as noble mounts or guardians and as a versatile emblem in heraldry. The creature has many regional variants and artistic interpretations, but the core motif of eagle and lion endures.