gargoyle

Instantly associated with gothic architecture in the Middle Ages this word is the generic name for grotesque sculptures (and amusing caricatures) that abound on the high points of those buildings.

Some gargoyles perform a practical purpose as waterspouts on those buildings.

In some examples, the distorted faces and expressions of the gargoyles were created as caricatures of political and religious figures of the time.

The word arises in 15 Century from the Old French gargouille (throat) which is related to the verb gargouiller to gargle. Perhaps this recalls the sound of water gurgling down the spout…