arpia

Arpia is a term used in various languages with several related meanings. In mythology, it refers to the harpy, a winged female creature from ancient Greek myth. In Lusophone and some Spanish-speaking contexts, arpia (arpía in Spanish) can denote a predatory or domineering woman. In some regions, arpia is also the common name used for the harpy eagle (Harpia harpyja), a large raptor native to tropical forests of the Americas.

In Greek mythology, harpies are winged beings described as swift and often foul-tempered, acting as agents of punishment. They are associated with storms and punishment of criminals, and they frequently appear as bringers of misfortune. Notable harpies include names such as Aello and Celaeno, and they feature in narratives involving figures like King Phineus and the Argonauts.

Beyond myth, the term arpia is used figuratively to describe a ruthless, predatory, or tyrannical woman. In literature, media, and everyday speech, it can carry pejorative connotations depending on context and tone.

The harpy eagle, referred to by the same word in some languages, is one of the largest raptors. Harpia harpyja inhabits tropical forests of Central and South America, feeding on large prey such as sloths and monkeys. The species is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List, with habitat loss and fragmentation as major threats. The name arpia is thus associated both with mythological imagery and with a real, powerful bird in regional vernacular.