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Name meaning

Iris Name Meaning - Rainbow (Greek)

Meaning
Rainbow
Origin
Greek
Gender
Girl
Pronunciation
I-RI-S

Iris means "Rainbow" (Greek). Recorded in Greek sources, Iris glosses as "Rainbow." Iris is the Greek goddess of the rainbow and messenger of the gods.

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Meaning and Linguistic Breakdown

Recorded in Greek sources, Iris glosses as "Rainbow." Iris is the Greek goddess of the rainbow and messenger of the gods.

Origin and Historical Usage

Iris is the Greek goddess of the rainbow and messenger of the gods. As a flower name (the iris plant) and eye anatomy term, Iris combines natural beauty with divine significance. Fashion icon Iris Apfel made this name synonymous with colorful individuality. Parents who choose Iris often cite sound and family heritage as much as dictionary meaning.

Pronunciation Guide

Phonetic
I-RI-S
Syllables
2

Geographic and Cultural Usage

The name travels well in international schools and multicultural cities. Greek origin remains the anchor even when spelling stays unchanged.

Popularity

Ranked #32 in our dataset. Compare with your country's official baby-name tables before deciding on rarity.

Notable People Named Iris

  • I
    Iris Apfel
  • I
    Iris Murdoch
  • I
    Iris van Herpen

Variants and Related Names

Spelling variants

  • Irisa — alternate form of Iris
  • Irene — alternate form of Iris
  • Irida — alternate form of Iris
  • Iridessa — alternate form of Iris

Frequently Asked Questions about Iris

What does Iris mean?
Iris means "Rainbow" in Greek tradition. Recorded in Greek sources, Iris glosses as "Rainbow." Iris is the Greek goddess of the rainbow and messenger of the gods.
How do you pronounce Iris?
Iris is pronounced I-RI-S (2 syllables).
What language is Iris from?
Iris comes from Greek. Iris is the Greek goddess of the rainbow and messenger of the gods.
Is Iris a boy or girl name?
Iris is primarily used as a girl's name.
What does Iris mean in English?
English references usually translate Iris as "Rainbow." It is not an English word; the gloss comes from Greek.
Is Iris a rare name?
Ranked #32 in our dataset. Compare with your country's official baby-name tables before deciding on rarity.
What is the origin of the name Iris?
Iris is the Greek goddess of the rainbow and messenger of the gods. As a flower name (the iris plant) and eye anatomy term, Iris combines natural beauty with divine significance. Fashion icon Iris Apfel made this name synonymous with colorful individuality. Parents who choose Iris often cite sound and family heritage as much as dictionary meaning.
What are variants of Iris?
Documented forms include: Irisa; Irene; Irida; Iridessa.
Who are famous people named Iris?
Notable bearers include Iris Apfel, Iris Murdoch, Iris van Herpen.

Sibling Name Ideas

Violet Flora Dahlia Zinnia

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