90482 Orcus objects with a similar size and orbit to that of Pluto are named after underworld deities. Accordingly, the discoverers suggested naming the object after "Orcus", the Etruscan god of the underworld and punisher of broken oaths. He was portrayed in paintings in Etruscan tombs as a hairy, bearded giant. The name was also a private reference to the homonymous Orcas Island, where Brown's wife Diane had lived as a child and that they visit frequently. On March 30, 2005, Orcus's companion, Vanth, was named after a winged female demon of the Etruscan underworld. She could be present at the moment
Orcus (Dungeons & Dragons) includes some details about his realm and his return. Orcus was used as the driving force for the adventure "Headless", which appears on pages 47–66 of "Dungeon" #89 (November 2001). Although the adventure recommends not having Orcus fight the player characters directly, third edition game statistics are provided for Orcus on page 64 if he is to be used as a recurring villain. He only appears personally at the end of the adventure to reclaim one of his possessions and warn the characters to cease meddling in his affairs. Orcus is featured as one of the demon lords appearing in