A Maenad is a female follower of the Greek god Dionysus, often depicted as frenzied and wild. They were known for their ecstatic rituals and dances, and were believed to be inspired by Dionysus himself. The term 'Maenad' is derived from the Greek word 'mainas, ' which means 'to rave.' In Greek mythology, they were also known as nymphs, which is a five-letter word that can be used to solve the crossword.