Abstract
Indo-European root *vel- and its possible connection with multiple semantic fields has been discussed by etymologists several times. A similar situation presented by the name for the mythical being versus the expression for souls of the deceased might be seen in Baltic languages too.
The paper focused on the use of the root within the framework of Latvian (especially burial) folksongs, identified and analysed each of the found form, its possible origin and function and claimed those of particular frequency.