Androsphinx

/ˈændrəsfɪŋks/ noun

Definition

A mythological creature combining a male human head or upper body with an animal body, common in ancient Egyptian art and architecture.

Etymology

From Greek 'andros' (male) + 'sphinx' (the mythological creature). This term was used by archaeologists to distinguish male sphinxes from female ones, particularly in describing Egyptian monuments.

Kelly Says

Ancient Egypt's Great Sphinx is female, but the Egyptians carved dozens of male sphinxes too—they used these creatures as guardians, placing them at temple entrances to scare away evil!

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