Onryō Meaning and Definition

"Onryō" is a term from Japanese folklore and refers to vengeful spirits or ghosts. These vengeful spirits are typically depicted as having returned from the afterlife to seek revenge on those who wronged them during their lifetime. Onryō are a common theme in Japanese ghost stories, literature, and theater, and they are often associated with tragic and gruesome tales of revenge.

Onryō are believed to be motivated by strong emotions such as anger, hatred, and the desire for retribution. They are usually depicted as malevolent and capable of causing harm or misfortune to the living. These vengeful spirits have been featured in various forms of Japanese popular culture, including movies, television shows, and literature, and they continue to be a fascinating element of Japanese horror and folklore.