BANSHEE

ORIGIN: Celtic mythology

This woman, the Banshee is said to be a harbinger of death.

She appears to forewarn families that a loved one will soon die. 

The Banshee's wail, known as the "keening," is a high-pitched cry that usually echoes throughout the night once it starts, sending shivers down the spines of those who hear it. 

Her presence is often retold as a woman cloaked in a flowing white or gray gown, with very long, unkempt hair. 

Sometimes she is said to look like a young beauty; other times, she appears as an old, haggard crone with red eyes swollen from tears.

Legends suggest that the Banshee is tied to ancient Irish families, more particularly those with names beginning with "O" or "Mc," such as O'Connor or McCarthy. 

When death approaches a family member, the Banshee appears, mourning and wailing as a supernatural warning. 

Some stories describe her combing her dirty hair with a silver comb— anyone who picks up this comb is doomed to misfortune.

Banshee herself is not believed to cause death but her mournful cries signal that it is near. 

This legend has persisted for centuries.