1. a legendary creature with the head and wings of an eagle and the body of a lion
Usage: also spelled gryphon; common in mythology and heraldry
2. a person who acts as a guide or guardian
Usage: archaic or literary

Examples

• The griffin appeared on the family's coat of arms.
• In medieval art, griffins symbolized strength and protection.
• The museum's sculpture depicted a griffin with outstretched wings.
• Ancient texts describe griffins guarding treasures in distant lands.
• The heraldic griffin combined features of two powerful animals.