Rakshasa
/ˈrʌk.ʃə.sə/noun
In Hindu tradition, a rakshasa is a malevolent supernatural being or demon.
Did you know?In Sanskrit, the name is linked to the root *rakṣ-* meaning “to protect,” a reminder that ancient demon names can preserve older ideas of guardianship, defense, and boundary-keeping.
Etymological Timeline
Vedic Sanskrit
Sanskrit
rakṣas
“a malevolent being, demon, or hostile supernatural creature”
Sanskrit root
Sanskrit
rakṣ-
“to guard, protect, watch over”
Classical Sanskrit
Sanskrit
rākṣasa
“belonging to or like a rakṣas; a demon or ogre”
Middle Indo-Aryan
Prakrit
rakkhasa / rakkhasa-
“demon, ogre”
Modern English
English
rakshasa
“a demon or evil supernatural being in South Asian mythology”