hippogriff

or hip·po·gryph

[ hip-uh-grif ]

noun

1. a fabulous creature resembling a griffin but having the body and hind parts of a horse.

hippogriff

/ ˈhɪpəʊˌɡrɪf /

noun

1. a monster of Greek mythology with a griffin's head, wings, and claws and a horse's body

Word History and Origins

Origin of hippogriff¹

1645–55; earlier hippogryph, Latinized < Italian ippogrifo. See hippo-, griffin ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of hippogriff¹

C17: from Italian ippogrifo, from ippo- horse (from Greek hippos ) + grifo griffin ¹

Example Sentences

When he threw another bit, the piebald hippogriff wheeled away, but returned almost at once and ate it.

From Project Gutenberg

The piebald hippogriff leaped into the air, and Johnny clamped his legs about convulsed muscles.

From Project Gutenberg

When the hippogriff bent its head to take the rest Johnny was on his feet instantly, swinging his lariat.

From Project Gutenberg

The tense wings flailed, caught air, and brought the hippogriff upright again.

From Project Gutenberg

The wings missed a beat and the hippogriff shook its head as the rope momentarily checked its breath.

From Project Gutenberg