An ancient Old Low Franconian (or Dietsc) word for buttocks, ass, backside. This lineage is reflected in related words in other Germanic languages such as
Dutch aars and German Arsch. This word has also been used in the Norwegian language referring to a creature created by the god of mischief
Loki. In an old Norwegian tale, the god of mischief
Loki birthed a creature called Aarush. This was a eight legged horse similar in appearance Sleipnir (the infamous horse rode by Odin to travel the nine realms), except this horse never ran or did anything useful for it's legs were
like hard rubber and could not bend.
Loki replaced Sleipnir with this abdominal creature to offend and delay Odin, who wanted to
journey to Jötunheimr. This term has been used as a slang word for people who are seen to be incompetent and are a liability to those around them.