(loanword) A class of semi-divine spirits in Buddhism, often depicted as swift and powerful but appearing as hideous or malevolent monsters; later serving as guardian spirits.

A person who is extremely ugly or has a ferocious and cruel disposition.

(humorous) A term used in old society to refer to a wife, specifically one who is fierce or ugly; often used in the phrase 母夜叉 mǔ​yè​chā.