The banshee is a female spirit in Irish mythology, usually seen as an omen of death and a messenger from the 'otheworld'. They are generally thought to be remnants of an ancient Celtic pagan religion in which they were minor gods, spirits, or ancestors. In English they are often referred to as fairies or ghosts. According to legend, banshees will wander around the outside of a house wailing when someone inside is about to die.

There have been alleged sightings of banshees throughout history. Similar beings are also found in Welsh and American folklore. Banshees are one of Irish mythology's most famous icons and they often appear in fictions and artworks.