Definitions

from The Century Dictionary.

  • To treat in the manner of Lord Grimthorpe, that is, to ‘restore’ (an old piece of architecture) with the effect of spoiling it, as Lord Grimthorpe is said to have done when he undertook to restore the west front of St. Albans Abbey in England.

Etymologies

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Examples

  • In spite of all remonstrance he did this in such a way that "to grimthorpe" has now become an active verb signifying the unintelligent mutilation of an ancient building under the cloak of restoration.

    The Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume 13: Revelation-Stock 1840-1916 1913

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  • To carry out a botched restoration of a building.

    January 7, 2008