I came across this phrase, นๅงผีเสื้อยักษ์, in a children's book, I think it's a Thai traditional story, there's mermaids and things in it. I translate it as monster butterfly woman, but can't get any clear idea from people here whether there is a literal big butterfly monster, or one person said that ผีเสื้อ in this context just meant 'rainbow coloured'. Are there generic butterfly monsters or just one specific one? Anyone come across this before and can explain?

I came across this phrase, นๅงผีเสื้อยักษ์, in a children's book, I think it's a Thai traditional story, there's mermaids and things in it. I translate it as monster butterfly woman, but can't get any clear idea from people here whether there is a literal big butterfly monster, or one person said that ผีเสื้อ in this context just meant 'rainbow coloured'. Are there generic butterfly monsters or just one specific one? Anyone come across this before and can explain?

Actually, her name was นางผีเสื้อสมุทร... She's a sea ogress from the old Thai literature, Pra Apaimanee. (see pics below).. She's the only one of her kind, as long as i know... ผีเสื้อสมุทร was just a name... nothing to do with butterfly or colors..

http://www.thaismile.jp/FotoGallary/ThaiPi...es/Statue03.jpg