griffin

Etymology

From Middle English griffoun, from Old French griffon, from Latin gryphus, from Ancient Greek γρύψ (grúps).

noun

1. A mythical beast having the body of a lion and the wings and head of an eagle.
2. A large vulture (Gyps fulvus) found in the mountainous parts of Southern Europe, North Africa, and Asia Minor, supposed to be the "eagle" of the Bible.
3. An English variety of apple.
4. (dated, India) A person who has just arrived from Europe.
   Tables were laid out in the palace, profusely covered with wines and refreshments, in the European style; old hands and griffins, fair sex and civilians, seemed all determined to enjoy themselves[…] 1842, The Asiatic journal and monthly register, volume 38, page 40
5. A cadet newly arrived in British India: half English, half Indian.
6. A watchful guardian, especially a duenna in charge of a young woman.