French translation of
gargoyle
is
gargouille
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Meaning of "gargoyle" in English
A "gargoyle" is a carved stone figure often depicting a grotesque human or animal, frequently used in architecture. These figures are traditionally mounted on the edges of buildings, particularly Gothic cathedrals, and serve as water spouts to direct rainwater away from the building's walls. Beyond their practical function, gargoyles are also symbolic, believed to ward off evil spirits. Historically, they highlighted the artistry and craftsmanship of stone masons, while their exaggerated features and poses conveyed vivid storytelling elements that entertained and educated onlookers.
Meaning of "gargouille" in French
In French, "gargouille" generally refers to the same architectural feature as "gargoyle" in English. These are stone carvings positioned on buildings to act as water spouts, channeling rain away from the structure to prevent erosion of the walls. "Gargouille" is derived from the Old French word for throat, which connects to its function of spouting water. Moreover, these figures, with their diverse shapes and forms, hold cultural and historical significance, often seen as protective symbols and are essential elements of medieval architecture, particularly in churches and cathedrals.
Pronunciation of "gargoyle" in English
Phonetic Transcription: /ˈɡɑːrɡɔɪl/
Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "gargoyle" is generally consistent across English-speaking regions. However, slight variations may occur in vowel sounds, with British English tending towards a more open "a" sound, while American English may use a longer and more pronounced "r" sound.
Pronunciation of "gargouille" in French
Phonetic Transcription: /ɡaʁ.ɡuj/
Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "gargouille" is relatively uniform throughout French-speaking areas. However, variations may occur in the rolling of the "r" or the softness of the "ll," reflecting regional accents, such as those found in southern France, which might influence the fluidity of the pronunciation.
Sentence examples in English and translation to French
- The ancient cathedral was adorned with numerous gargoyles. (La cathédrale ancienne était ornée de nombreuses gargouilles.)
- Tourists marveled at the intricate details of the gargoyle atop the tower. (Les touristes admiraient les détails complexes de la gargouille au sommet de la tour.)
- The rainwater poured from the gargoyle's mouth like a small waterfall. (L'eau de pluie coulait de la bouche de la gargouille comme une petite cascade.)
- Legend says that gargoyles protect churches from evil spirits. (La légende dit que les gargouilles protègent les églises des esprits maléfiques.)
- Each gargoyle had a unique design, depicting mythical creatures and beasts. (Chaque gargouille avait un design unique, représentant des créatures mythiques et des bêtes.)
- The roof line of the old building was lined with ornate gargoyles. (La ligne de toit du vieux bâtiment était bordée de gargouilles ornées.)
- Artists often find inspiration in the grotesque forms of gargoyles. (Les artistes trouvent souvent leur inspiration dans les formes grotesques des gargouilles.)
- The Gothic architecture featured an impressive number of gargoyles. (L'architecture gothique présentait un nombre impressionnant de gargouilles.)
- Some of the gargoyles have eroded away over the centuries. (Certaines gargouilles se sont érodées au fil des siècles.)
- The eerie appearance of the gargoyle added to the cathedral's mystique. (L'apparence étrange de la gargouille ajoutait au mystère de la cathédrale.)
Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "gargoyle" in English
Synonyms: grotesque, chimera, grotesque statue, stone carving, water spout.
Antonyms: -
Similar Words: sculpture, figure, statue, ornament, carving.
Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "gargouille" in French
Synonyms: chimère, sculpture, figure, ornement, rejet d'eau.
Antonyms: -
Similar Words: statue, sculpture, décor, motif, façade.
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