Gorgoneion

Definitions

  • Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
    • n Gorgoneion (Arch) A mask carved in imitation of a Gorgon's head.
    • ***
Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia
    • n gorgoneion A mask of the Gorgon; the head of Medusa; in classical mythology, such a mask or head as an attribute of Pallas, who bore it on her breast in the midst of her ægis, and also on her shield. See cut under ægis. It is a familiar attribute in Greek art, and was much used in Greek architecture for acroteria, antefixes, etc., often in the precise type of the head of Medusa in the cut under Gorgon.
    • ***
Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary
    • n Gorgoneion a mask of the gorgon
    • ***

Etymology

Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
NL., fr. Gr. Gorgo`neios, equiv. to Gorgei^os belonging to a Gorgon
Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary
L. gorgon—Gr. gorgō—gorgos, grim.

Usage

In literature:

On its exterior surface is a Gorgoneion upon an aegis; in the interior is an allegorical design, relating to the Nile flood.
"Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 11, Slice 5" by Various
The earrings, locks of hair, a Gorgoneion, and snakes bordering the aegis were made of metal, and attached.
"A Catalogue of Sculpture in the Department of Greek and Roman Antiquities, British Museum, Volume I (of 2)" by A. H. Smith
***

Related words