Many epithets of the Russian language can have both positive and negative meanings. These include the word "devil". This is the nickname that women are usually awarded. So where does this word come from, and what does it mean?
In mythology
The Slavs called the damn wife or daughter a devil. In mythology, they called demonic creatures that lived in swamps, in forests and even in fields. Initially, they were people, but due to many sins, God did not take their souls to paradise after death. Doomed to roam the earth forever, they eventually turned into evil creatures that attract attention with their tricks. The devils are capable of anything: they not only cause trouble to people, but can also kill.
They can also call a witch a devil. And if this word once personified a sorcerer, that is, a healer, then today such a name as a devil is not a pleasant compliment. Witches send numerous troubles to people, because they are in the service of the devil.
Also, mermaids - the souls of drowned women - were called devils before. They lived at the bottom of reservoirs and drowned young guys. Of course, in this context, “devil” is a word that has a negative connotation.
As a swear word
More often than not, “devil” is a swear word that characterizes an evil, envious and vengeful woman. Quite often, such use is found in literature, less often in colloquial speech. For example: "All this damn old gossip."
In a positive context
Consider a positive value. Devil is a young girl who can not only fend for herself, but also differs in cunning and attractiveness. Such girls are usually independent and self-confident. The seductive girl in the photo can be called a hottie.
Quite often, this epithet is used by romance novelists for their heroines. That's what the famous Bertris Small called one of her books.