definition
strict definition
gargoyle
A sculptural adornment of a roof or facade water spout, usually depicting a fanciful or grotesque creature.
A gargoyle is a sculptural adornment of a water spout on the roof or facade of a structure, usually carved as a likeness of some fanciful or grotesque creature. Gargoyles are common in gothic and neo-gothic architecture, and are often found on churches and university buildings.
The sculpture belongs to a water spout. A grotesque creature carved on a building without that water-spout function is a different kind of sculptural ornament.
Churches and university buildings in Gothic or Neo-Gothic styles are common settings. Neither that use nor that architectural style is required for a sculptural water spout to qualify.
