Ira

Girl Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/ˈaɪrə/

Ira: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Eirēnáios (Εἰρηναῖος),” from “eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη),” meaning “peace, tranquility, harmony". It derives from the Greek word "eiríni > eirḗnē > Eirēnáios".

In Greek tradition, Ira holds special significance as a feminine name representing This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Eirēnáios (Εἰρηναῖος),” from “eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη),” meaning “peace, tranquility, harmony. This name has been cherished across generations, carrying with it the wisdom and heritage of Greek culture. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal resonance.

Quick Facts About Ira

Quick facts about Ira
OriginGreek
GenderGirl name
PopularityUncommon

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Eirēnáios (Εἰρηναῖος),” from “eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη),” meaning “peace, tranquility, harmony.” Saint Irenaeus was Bishop of Lugdunum in Gaul, then a part of the Roman Empire (now Lyons, France). He was an early church father and apologist, and his writings were formative in the early development of Christian theology. He was a hearer of Polycarp, who in turn was a disciple of John the Evangelist.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

eiríni > eirḗnē > Eirēnáios

How to Pronounce Ira

Ira is pronounced /ˈaɪrə/(Greek)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Ir-a
  2. Say it like: "AEEHROOH"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

This name has found popularity across italian, polish, and czech speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.

italianpolishczech
Frequently Asked Questions About Ira
What does the name Ira mean?
Ira means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Eirēnáios (Εἰρηναῖος),” from “eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη),” meaning “peace, tranquility, harmony.” Saint Irenaeus was Bishop of Lugdunum in Gaul, then a part of the Roman Empire (now Lyons, France). He was an early church father and apologist, and his writings were formative in the early development of Christian theology. He was a hearer of Polycarp, who in turn was a disciple of John the Evangelist.". The name comes from eiríni > eirḗnē > Eirēnáios. In its original form, the name derives from eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη) Eirēnáios (Εἰρηναῖος). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Ira for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Eirēnáios (Εἰρηναῖος),” from “eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη),” meaning “peace, tranquility, harmony.” Saint Irenaeus was Bishop of Lugdunum in Gaul, then a part of the Roman Empire (now Lyons, France). He was an early church father and apologist, and his writings were formative in the early development of Christian theology. He was a hearer of Polycarp, who in turn was a disciple of John the Evangelist." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Ira offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices.
What is the origin of the name Ira?
Ira is a greek name. The name traces back to eiríni > eirḗnē > Eirēnáios. The original form eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη) Eirēnáios (Εἰρηναῖος) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Ira spread to become common in italian, polish, czech. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Eirēnáios (Εἰρηναῖος),” from “eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη),” meaning “peace, tranquility, harmony.” Saint Irenaeus was Bishop of Lugdunum in Gaul, then a part of the Roman Empire (now Lyons, France). He was an early church father and apologist, and his writings were formative in the early development of Christian theology. He was a hearer of Polycarp, who in turn was a disciple of John the Evangelist." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Ira a boy or girl name?
Ira is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In greek tradition, Ira has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Eirēnáios (Εἰρηναῖος),” from “eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη),” meaning “peace, tranquility, harmony.” Saint Irenaeus was Bishop of Lugdunum in Gaul, then a part of the Roman Empire (now Lyons, France). He was an early church father and apologist, and his writings were formative in the early development of Christian theology. He was a hearer of Polycarp, who in turn was a disciple of John the Evangelist." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Ira?
Ira is pronounced "/ˈaɪrə/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Ira is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in italian, polish, czech, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Ira can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. This pronunciation has been verified and represents the standard way to say the name. The name's root eiríni > eirḗnē > Eirēnáios influences how Ira sounds in its original language.
What are common nicknames for Ira?
Ira is commonly used as a nickname for Ireneo, Irenej, Ireneus, Irinij. Being a shortened version of Ireneo, Irenej, Ireneus, Irinij, Ira offers a casual alternative that's quicker to say in everyday conversation. Many people named Ireneo, Irenej, Ireneus, Irinij go by Ira throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In greek cultures, using Ira as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among girls and women, though some now use Ira as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Ira on the birth certificate directly, skipping the longer form entirely. This gives the child a name that feels both complete and approachable.
How popular is the name Ira?
Ira is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Ira gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Ira's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Eirēnáios (Εἰρηναῖος),” from “eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη),” meaning “peace, tranquility, harmony.” Saint Irenaeus was Bishop of Lugdunum in Gaul, then a part of the Roman Empire (now Lyons, France). He was an early church father and apologist, and his writings were formative in the early development of Christian theology. He was a hearer of Polycarp, who in turn was a disciple of John the Evangelist." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Ira holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Ira commonly used?
Ira is common in italian and polish and czech naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Ira found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Ira, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Eirēnáios (Εἰρηναῖος),” from “eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη),” meaning “peace, tranquility, harmony.” Saint Irenaeus was Bishop of Lugdunum in Gaul, then a part of the Roman Empire (now Lyons, France). He was an early church father and apologist, and his writings were formative in the early development of Christian theology. He was a hearer of Polycarp, who in turn was a disciple of John the Evangelist." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Ira into their naming traditions. A child named Ira will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Ira is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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