Iris

Iris is a feminine first name that has its origins in Greek mythology. In this context, Iris is depicted as a messenger of the gods, associated with the rainbow, as a symbol of the connection between heaven and earth.

What does the name Iris mean?

The name Iris has its roots in Greek mythology, where Iris served as a messenger of the gods. She was often depicted as a rainbow, symbolizing the connection between heaven and earth. The name itself means 'the rainbow' in German and is derived from the ancient Greek word îris (ἶρις). Additionally, Iris refers to a flower also known as the blue iris. In a medical context, Iris refers to the colored part of the eye. The Portuguese and Icelandic spelling of the name is Íris. Furthermore, there are variants such as Irisa, Irida, Iride, and Yris. In Germany, the name has been in use since the 20th century, and a prominent bearer is the actress Iris Berben.

Where does the name Iris come from?

The etymology of the name Iris is ancient Greek, which can be translated as 'the rainbow'. The ancient Greek word îris (ἶρις) stands for rainbow. The languages in which the name occurs are German and Greek.

How do you pronounce Iris?

The name Iris has a clear sound and is two syllables. In German pronunciation, it is typically rendered as 'I-ris' [ˈiːʁɪs]. It begins with a long, bright 'i', which gives the name radiance. The soft middle consonant and the hissing 's' at the end provide a distinct conclusion. Iris conveys a fine and luminous impression - calm, elegant, and with a quiet presence.

When is the name day of Iris?

The name day for Iris is celebrated on September 4.

Popularity

Iris has developed as a feminine first name in Germany over many decades. Since the first recorded mentions in the early 1920s, the name initially occupied a middle to less common range but remained continuously present in German naming practices. The strongest popularity was achieved by Iris particularly between the late 1960s and early 1970s, when the name reached its best-documented rank of 31 in 1971. After that, a clear decline was observed.

Nicknames & pet names

Ilis / Ines / Ira / Irchen / Iri / Irina / Iripisi / Irisa / Irischen / Irish / Irisi / Irisimus / Irisiri / Irita / Irsi / Ise / Isi / Issi / Risi / Schniris / Siri

Similar first names

Iras

Famous people

• Iris Apfel (fashion icon)
• Iris Bahr (Israeli actress)
• Iris Berben (actress)
• Iris Burton (American dancer)
• Iris Därmann (German philosopher)
• Iris Davis (sprinter from America)
• Iris Eckschläger (Austrian biathlete)
• Iris Falcon (Indian volleyball player)
• Iris Gudmundsdottir (Alpine skier from Iceland)
• Iris Gusner (German film director)
• Iris Hanika (* 1962), German writer)
• Iris Haussler (artist from Germany)
• Iris Hesseling (Dutch actress)
• Iris Hoey (actress from England)
• Iris Hoffmann (politician)
• Iris Johansen (* 1938), American writer)
• Iris Kammerer (German writer)
• Iris Komar (American swimmer)
• Iris Love (American archaeologist)
• Iris Luella Dement (musician from the USA)