What does griff mean?
A griff is a mythical creature traditionally represented with the head and wings of an eagle and the body of a lion. Creatures of this kind appear in ancient Mediterranean and European legend and later became prominent in heraldry, where they symbolized vigilance, courage, and supernatural strength. The spelling “griff” is chiefly associated with British English and is now relatively uncommon, while “griffin” is the standard form in most modern writing. A griff may be shown standing, flying, or guarding a shield, and its sharply defined combination of avian and feline features makes it immediately recognizable. Although the word is no longer frequently encountered outside discussions of heraldry, literature, or older texts, it remains useful because it identifies a familiar legendary and heraldic creature. Knowing “griff” also helps readers recognize it as a variant of the much more familiar “griffin.”
nounA griff is a mythical creature traditionally depicted with the head and wings of an eagle and the body of a lion. In modern English, it is chiefly a rare British variant of the more common spelling “griffin.”
- A mythical creature with an eagle's head and wings and a lion's body, traditionally used as a heraldic emblem.
"A golden griff guarded the entrance to the medieval hall."
"A gold griff guarded the entrance to the medieval hall."
"The shield displayed a white griff on a field of red."
The plural is “griffs,” though “griffins” is far more common.
"Two bronze griffs flanked the monument."
A griff combines the eagle's power of vision with the lion's strength, making it one of heraldry's most formidable symbols.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does griff come from?
The word descends through Middle English “griff” from Old French “griffin,” which came from Latin “gryphus.” The Latin term was borrowed from Greek “gryps,” also written “grypos,” meaning a griffin. The shorter British spelling “griff” developed alongside the established form “griffin” and survives chiefly in British usage.
How griff is actually used
The word is relatively uncommon and chiefly associated with British English, particularly older or regional usage. “Griffin” is overwhelmingly preferred in modern standard English.
Easily confused with griff
A grift is a scam or act of deception, whereas a griff is a mythical creature.
Griffin is the standard modern spelling of the mythical creature; griff is a chiefly British variant.