1 (in Greek and Roman mythology) a monster with a woman's head and body and bird's wings and claws.
2 a grasping unscrupulous person.
Phrases and idioms:
harpy eagle a S. American crested bird of prey, Harpia harpyja, one of the largest of eagles.
Etymology: F harpie or L harpyia f. Gk harpuiai snatchers (cf. harpazo snatch)
Useful english dictionary. 2012.