gorgon

From Ancient Greek Γοργώ (Gorgṓ), from γοργός (gorgós, “terrible”). Possibly from the same root as the Sanskrit word "garğ" which is defined as a guttural sound, similar to the growling of a beast, thus possibly originating as an onomatopoeia.[1]

• IPA^(key): /ˈɡɔːrɡən/
• Hyphenation: gor‧gon

gorgon (plural gorgons)

1. (Greek mythology) A vicious female monster from Greek mythology with sharp fangs and hair of living, venomous snakes. One of the three sisters: Medusa, Stheno and Euryale
2. An intimidating, ugly, or disgusting woman; anything hideous or horrid.

   (Can we find and add a quotation of Milton to this entry?)

   • 2005 July 1, Washington Post:

     Swilling martinis and spewing venom, Phyllis is a particularly unappetizing gorgon, telling us at one point that an acquaintance of hers is aroused by the Heimlich maneuver.

gorgon (not comparable)

1. Like a gorgon; very ugly or terrifying.

• Medusa

• Chambers's Etymological Dictionary, 1896, p. 208