Oni

Oni are creatures from Japanese folklore, variously translated as demons, devils, ogres, and trolls!

Depictions of oni vary widely but usually portray them as hideous, gigantic creatures with sharp claws, wild hair, and two long horns growing from their heads.

They are often depicted wearing tiger-skin loincloths and carrying iron clubs, called kanabō. This image leads to the expression "oni with an iron club", that is, to be invincible or undefeatable.

It can also be used in the sense of "strong beyond strong", or having one's natural quality enhanced or supplemented by the use of some tool.

Some villages hold yearly ceremonies to drive away oni, particularly at the beginning of Spring.

Their skin may be any number of colors, but red and blue are particularly common.

Now you know!