Irene

Girl Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/aɪˈriːn/

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

In Greek tradition, Irene holds special significance as a feminine name representing This name derives from the Ancient Greek “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 Irene

Quick facts about Irene
OriginGreek
GenderGirl name
PopularityModerately popular

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 “eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη),” meaning “peace, tranquility, harmony.” The Roman equivalent was “Pax.” Eirene in Greek Mythology was one of the Horae and the personification of peace. She is sometimes said to be the daughter of Zeus and Themis. Irene and its variants were also the names of an 8th-century Byzantine empress, as well as several saints. The name has always been trendy among the people of the Christian faith. In English, the name “Irene” did not become common until the 19th-century. In Greek mythology, the Horae (Greek: Ὧραι, ‘seasons’) were the goddesses of the seasons and the natural portions of time.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

eiríni > eirḗnē

How to Pronounce Irene

Irene is pronounced /aɪˈriːn/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

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

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Irene enjoys international appeal, used in 13 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, spanish, catalan, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

englishspanishcatalanancient Greek (Latinized)italiannorwegianportugueseswedishdanishfinnishestonianslovenegerman
Frequently Asked Questions About Irene
What does the name Irene mean?
Irene means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη),” meaning “peace, tranquility, harmony.” The Roman equivalent was “Pax.” Eirene in Greek Mythology was one of the Horae and the personification of peace. She is sometimes said to be the daughter of Zeus and Themis. Irene and its variants were also the names of an 8th-century Byzantine empress, as well as several saints. The name has always been trendy among the people of the Christian faith. In English, the name “Irene” did not become common until the 19th-century. In Greek mythology, the Horae (Greek: Ὧραι, ‘seasons’) were the goddesses of the seasons and the natural portions of time.". The name comes from eiríni > eirḗnē. In its original form, the name derives from eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Irene for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη),” meaning “peace, tranquility, harmony.” The Roman equivalent was “Pax.” Eirene in Greek Mythology was one of the Horae and the personification of peace. She is sometimes said to be the daughter of Zeus and Themis. Irene and its variants were also the names of an 8th-century Byzantine empress, as well as several saints. The name has always been trendy among the people of the Christian faith. In English, the name “Irene” did not become common until the 19th-century. In Greek mythology, the Horae (Greek: Ὧραι, ‘seasons’) were the goddesses of the seasons and the natural portions of time." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Irene's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like GREEK MYTHOLOGY / RELIGION (SAINTS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Irene?
Irene is a greek name. The name traces back to eiríni > eirḗnē. The original form eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Irene spread to become common in english, spanish, catalan, ancient Greek (Latinized) and other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη),” meaning “peace, tranquility, harmony.” The Roman equivalent was “Pax.” Eirene in Greek Mythology was one of the Horae and the personification of peace. She is sometimes said to be the daughter of Zeus and Themis. Irene and its variants were also the names of an 8th-century Byzantine empress, as well as several saints. The name has always been trendy among the people of the Christian faith. In English, the name “Irene” did not become common until the 19th-century. In Greek mythology, the Horae (Greek: Ὧραι, ‘seasons’) were the goddesses of the seasons and the natural portions of time." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Irene a boy or girl name?
Irene 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, Irene has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη),” meaning “peace, tranquility, harmony.” The Roman equivalent was “Pax.” Eirene in Greek Mythology was one of the Horae and the personification of peace. She is sometimes said to be the daughter of Zeus and Themis. Irene and its variants were also the names of an 8th-century Byzantine empress, as well as several saints. The name has always been trendy among the people of the Christian faith. In English, the name “Irene” did not become common until the 19th-century. In Greek mythology, the Horae (Greek: Ὧραι, ‘seasons’) were the goddesses of the seasons and the natural portions of time." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Irene?
Irene is pronounced "/aɪˈriːn/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Irene is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, spanish, catalan, 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 Irene can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root eiríni > eirḗnē influences how Irene sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Irene?
Irene is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Irene offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Irene'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 “eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη),” meaning “peace, tranquility, harmony.” The Roman equivalent was “Pax.” Eirene in Greek Mythology was one of the Horae and the personification of peace. She is sometimes said to be the daughter of Zeus and Themis. Irene and its variants were also the names of an 8th-century Byzantine empress, as well as several saints. The name has always been trendy among the people of the Christian faith. In English, the name “Irene” did not become common until the 19th-century. In Greek mythology, the Horae (Greek: Ὧραι, ‘seasons’) were the goddesses of the seasons and the natural portions of time." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Irene holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Irene commonly used?
Irene spans multiple cultures, including english, spanish, catalan, and 10 other traditions. Though greek in origin, Irene found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Irene, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη),” meaning “peace, tranquility, harmony.” The Roman equivalent was “Pax.” Eirene in Greek Mythology was one of the Horae and the personification of peace. She is sometimes said to be the daughter of Zeus and Themis. Irene and its variants were also the names of an 8th-century Byzantine empress, as well as several saints. The name has always been trendy among the people of the Christian faith. In English, the name “Irene” did not become common until the 19th-century. In Greek mythology, the Horae (Greek: Ὧραι, ‘seasons’) were the goddesses of the seasons and the natural portions of time." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Irene into their naming traditions. A child named Irene 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, Irene is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Irene?
Irene carries associations with GREEK MYTHOLOGY / RELIGION (SAINTS). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “eiríni (ειρήνη) eirḗnē ‎(εἰρήνη),” meaning “peace, tranquility, harmony.” The Roman equivalent was “Pax.” Eirene in Greek Mythology was one of the Horae and the personification of peace. She is sometimes said to be the daughter of Zeus and Themis. Irene and its variants were also the names of an 8th-century Byzantine empress, as well as several saints. The name has always been trendy among the people of the Christian faith. In English, the name “Irene” did not become common until the 19th-century. In Greek mythology, the Horae (Greek: Ὧραι, ‘seasons’) were the goddesses of the seasons and the natural portions of time." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Irene originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Irene sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Irene often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

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

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