Iris
Rainbow — a girl name of Greek origin
Popularity of Iris in the United States
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Meaning & Origin of Iris
Iris comes from the Greek word for "rainbow" and was the name of the Greek goddess who served as a messenger between the gods and humanity, traveling along the rainbow as her bridge between worlds. The iris flower was named after the goddess due to its wide variety of colours. The name has been used since antiquity and gained renewed popularity in the English-speaking world during the 19th century. Its combination of mythological depth, botanical beauty, and crisp simplicity gives it a timeless appeal that transcends trends.
Iris Around the World
Iris is used in 5 languages worldwide, with 5+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
Nicknames for Iris
Famous People Named Iris
- Iris Murdoch — Irish-British novelist and philosopher
- Iris Apfel — American fashion icon and interior designer
- Iris Chang — American author and journalist
Similar Names to Iris
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Sibling Name Ideas for Iris
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Iris mean?
Iris is a girl name of Greek origin meaning "Rainbow." Iris comes from the Greek word for "rainbow" and was the name of the Greek goddess who served as a messenger between the gods and humanity, traveling along the rainbow as her bridge between worlds. The iris flower was named after the goddess due to its wide variety of colours.
How do you pronounce Iris?
Iris is pronounced EYE-ris. Common variations include Irisa, Irissa, Iris.
Is Iris a girl name?
Yes, Iris is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Irie, Ri.
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