Names can be deceiving, especially when it comes to demons and other dangerous creatures. A fearsome name might put you on guard, but what about Amy or Leonard? These seemingly harmless names conceal entities of immense power and terror. This list explores ten such demons and mythological beings, revealing the chilling truth behind their disarming names.
10. The Bean Nighe
Imagine walking through Scotland and being warned about the “Bean Nighe.” You might think it’s a type of bean! Instead, it’s pronounced “ben-nee’-yeh,” and it is an omen of death. The Bean Nighe appears as an old woman washing bloodstained clothes by a stream, much like the Irish banshee. Legend says these are the clothes of those about to die. While it’s best to avoid her, approaching her correctly—sneaking up and suckling one of her breasts, then claiming to be her foster child—can lead to wishes being granted.
9. The Abbey Lubber
Monks and priests might fear succumbing to temptation, but the Abbey Lubber is a demon in disguise that preys on this fear. These demons loiter in abbeys, tempting monks with greed, drunkenness, and indecency. Waiting in wine cellars, they ensure the monks stray further down a path to damnation. Tales of Abbey Lubbers arose in 15th-century Europe, fueled by the wealth and decadence found within these religious institutions.
8. Puss of the Corner
Don’t let the cute name fool you! This fearsome creature from Irish folklore, also known as “Pus an Chuine” or “Cat-head,” was the son of a witch who kept burning down a castle. Cat-head was incredibly resilient, surviving dismemberment and decapitation in his battle against the hero Fin MacCumhail. Ultimately, Fin had to use the witch’s blood to finally kill the beast, ending what was said to be the greatest battle of all time.
7. The Killakee Cat
Another terrifying feline from Ireland, the Killakee Cat (or “Beast of Killakee”) haunts Killakee House. Witnesses describe it as a black cat the size of a German shepherd, with burning red eyes, though it sometimes appears as a disfigured dwarf. Killakee House was once a meeting place for the Hellfire Club, a sinister secret society. Legends tell of devil worship and cat sacrifices, adding to the house’s dark history, making it uninhabitable even after exorcism attempts.
6. Furfur
Despite his cute-sounding name, Furfur is no cuddly creature. He’s a fallen angel and a high-ranking demon, holding the title of Earl and commanding 26 legions. Furfur appears as a hybrid of deer and human, with the head and hindquarters of a hart, the chest and arms of a man, bat wings, and a permanently burning tail. He can cause thunderstorms but becomes helpful when summoned in a triangle, answering questions about secret and divine matters truthfully. Otherwise, his words are false.
5. Amy
Amy is now a popular name, but centuries ago, it belonged to a great president of Hell. According to the Pseudomonarchia Daemonum, Amy commands 36 legions of demons. He initially appears as a fire before transforming into a man. Despite his power, Amy longs to return to Heaven and regain his place among the angels, a hope that demonologists consider impossible.
4. Leonard
While Satan and Beelzebub are well-known, Leonard is a less recognized but influential demon. He serves as the Inspector General of sorcery, witchcraft, and the black arts, in addition to being the Grand Master of Sabbaths, overseeing demonic orgies and banquets. Leonard typically appears as a goat from the waist up, with three horns and flaming eyes. He also has a face on his rear, which witches kiss to worship him.
3. Lilith
Lilith is a female demon from Jewish folklore, infamous for kidnapping and murdering children and seducing men. Legends say she was Adam’s first wife, who left the Garden of Eden after refusing to submit to him. Angered after the angels killed 100 of her children every day as punishment, Lilith retaliates by killing the children of others, causing stillbirths and SIDS. Seen by some as a symbol of female independence, she remains a fearsome figure.
2. The Uncle
El Tío, or “The Uncle,” holds a complex relationship with Bolivian miners. Resembling the Devil, he can be generous, allowing miners to leave with their lives and silver. However, miners must never fear him, as fear invites death. El Tío is said to devour the souls of those who are afraid. Miners worship him with gifts of cigarettes, alcohol, and coca leaves, seeking his permission to extract precious metals. In return, they offer him their souls.
1. Lady Midday
Farmers in Eastern Europe should never forget to take their midday break, or they might encounter Lady Midday. Also called the Noonwraith, she punishes those who work during the sacred midday hour. Appearing in the folklore of Russia, Poland, Ukraine, and Serbia, she is often depicted in a white robe. A touch of her hand is deadly. It’s also wise to avoid conversation with her, as she might kill those who turn away or fail to answer her questions.
Deceptive names can hide the most terrifying entities. From helpful advice to deadly encounters, the demons on this list each carry a unique type of threat. Next time you hear a harmless-sounding name, remember that appearances—and names—can be deceiving.
Which of these demons surprised you the most? Leave your comment below!
