Iris
Iris is a girl name of Greek origin meaning “Rainbow”, pronounced EYE-ris. It ranked #61 in the United States in 2025, given to 3,729 babies, and peaked at #61 in 2025. Common nicknames: Irie, Ri.
How popular is 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.
What does Iris mean, and where does it come from?
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.
How is Iris used 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.
What are the 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
If you like Iris, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Iris
Looking for names that pair well with Iris? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
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.