[2][3][a] There is variation in the names and spelling, including Ukrainian: Мавка, mavka,[4] навка, navka,[5] нявка, nyavka.

These terms all derive from Proto-Slavic *navь 'the dead', and are cognate with Bulgarian: нави, navi (plural).

The spirits known by this term represented the souls of girls who had died unnatural, tragic or premature deaths, particularly unchristened babies.

Mavkas and Nyavkas were believed to live in groups in forests, mountain caves, or sheds, which they decorated with rugs.

To save an unchristened baby's soul, one must throw up a kerchief during Pentecost holidays, say their name and add "I baptise you".