A (; plural ) is a hostile and malicious demon from Slavic mythology. They were believed to come into existence from stillborn fetuses, but also from improperly buried remains of children who had died during infancy.
A is somewhat similar to a being from Scandinavian folklore, the . were considered to be extremely powerful demons, due to their potential of unrealized life.
were associated with many taboos regarding pregnant women, such as drawing water from a well, leaving home with an infant, or engaging in sexual intercourse.
A stillborn fetus did not turn into a if it was buried under the threshold of the house. Instead, it turned into a â a protective house spirit.