Origin
Greek
Syllables
3
Zodiac
Libra
Trend
Rising
At a glance
Irene is a name often given to girls. Ranked #638 and is currently rising on the charts. It comes from a Greek origin and traditionally means "Peace, from the Greek 'eirene' meaning tranquility and harmony". It has 3 syllables.
The Story of Irene
Irene originates from the ancient Greek word 'eirene,' personified as the goddess of peace in mythology, daughter of Zeus and Themis. The name entered Christian tradition via the New Testament and spread through Latin 'Irina' during the Roman era. By the Middle Ages, it evolved in Europe, with variants like Rena in English, and saw a revival in the 19th century amid classical name trends, becoming popular in the U.S. during the early 20th century.
Culturally, Irene symbolizes harmony and diplomacy, revered in Greek and Roman societies for embodying societal peace. In Western culture, it's associated with femininity and resilience, often chosen for its biblical undertones. Globally, it appears in literature and art, representing ideals of calm amid turmoil, and holds significance in feminist histories for notable bearers advocating peace.
In media, Irene Adler from Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes stories stands out as a clever, independent woman. The name features in films like 'Irene' (1940) starring Anna Neagle, and in TV as Irene Malloy in 'Hello, Dolly!' adaptations. Contemporary pop culture includes Irene in K-dramas and anime, often as wise mentors or elegant figures.
Personality traits linked to Irene include poise and empathy, reflecting its peaceful roots. Bearers are typically diplomatic, with a knack for mediation and artistic expression. The name suggests a serene yet passionate nature, balancing intellect with emotional intelligence for fulfilling relationships.
Popularity
Currently ranked #638 on the Baby Billboard Charts. Peak rank: #638. Changed +37 positions from last year.
Numerology Profile
Life path 9 is humanitarian, compassionate, and idealistic, focused on global betterment. They seek to serve others selflessly. This path brings fulfillment through altruism but challenges with letting go.
Soul urge 9 desires universal love and wisdom, driving philanthropic actions. It fosters empathy and artistic depth. Imbalances may lead to emotional overwhelm.
Personality 9 appears generous and tolerant, attracting diverse circles. Others see their charisma and insight. It promotes harmony but risks overextension.
Expression 9 conveys creativity and benevolence, excelling in arts or aid. It inspires collective progress. Potential pitfalls include scattered efforts.
Zodiac & Astrology
Libra
Libra's pursuit of harmony mirrors Irene's meaning of peace. The name's elegance suits the scales' aesthetic sense. It enhances diplomatic traits central to Libras.
Strengths
Compatible Signs
Lucky Numbers
Lucky Colors
Best Career Paths
Name Energy & Vibe
Irene exudes calming, soothing energy that promotes inner peace and gentle connections. It feels like a tranquil garden, nurturing harmony. This aura invites balance and compassionate interactions.
Color Aura
Soft Lavender
Element
Water
Season
Autumn
Gemstone
Amethyst
Spirit Animal
Dove
Power Word
Serenity
Energy Type
Water × Autumn
Personality & Traits
Diplomatic
Irene's excel in resolving conflicts with grace and fairness. Their words soothe tensions effectively. This skill builds lasting alliances.
Artistic
A flair for beauty and expression shines in creative pursuits. They find joy in music or visual arts. It enriches their emotional world.
Compassionate
Deep care for others motivates supportive actions. Empathy guides their interactions daily. This trait deepens personal bonds.
Graceful
Poise defines their demeanor in all situations. Elegance enhances their presence naturally. It inspires admiration from peers.
Wise
Insightful perspectives offer valuable guidance. Life experiences hone their judgment. This fosters respect in communities.
Harmonious
Seeking balance creates peaceful environments around them. They mediate with intuition. It promotes overall well-being.
Resilient
Bouncing back from adversity with quiet strength. Inner peace sustains through trials. This endurance motivates perseverance.
Intuitive
Sensing unspoken needs aids in nurturing roles. Gut feelings prove reliable often. It enhances decision-making processes.
Famous People Named Irene
Irene Adler
Fictional but iconic; real inspirations include historical figures, but notably Irene Cara, singer-actress.
Irene Cara
Grammy-winning singer of 'Fame' and 'Flashdance... What a Feeling'.
Irene Papas
Greek actress known for roles in 'Zorba the Greek' and 'The Guns of Navarone'.
Irene Dunne
Hollywood golden age actress in 'Show Boat' and 'The Awful Truth'.
Irene Khan
UN Special Rapporteur and human rights advocate.
Irene Bedard
Actress voicing Pocahontas in Disney's animated film.
Irene Worth
Tony Award-winning stage actress in Broadway productions.
Irene Trimble
Video game writer for Tomb Raider series.
Irene McCormack
Catholic missionary and martyr in Peru.
Irene in Pop Culture
Irene Adler
Sherlock Holmes stories by Arthur Conan Doyle (book)
Irene Malloy
Hello, Dolly! (musical/film)
Irene
Flashdance (film)
Irene
The Vampire Diaries (TV)
Irene
Red Velvet K-pop group (music)
Irene
Once Upon a Time (TV)
Irene
The Crown (TV, historical figure)
Irene
Fame (film/TV)
Historical Events
5th century BCE
Eirene goddess featured in Greek peace treaties post-Persian Wars.
1910
Irene tops U.S. baby name charts amid classical revivals.
1940
Film 'Irene' released, boosting name's cultural visibility.
1983
Irene Cara wins Oscar for 'Flashdance' song, highlighting fame.
4th century
Saint Irene of Rome martyred, inspiring Christian usage.
International Variations
Irene in Different Scripts
إيرين
Arabic
艾琳
Chinese (Mandarin)
アイリーン
Japanese (Katakana)
아이린
Korean
אירן
Hebrew
Ειρήνη
Greek
Ирена
Cyrillic
इरेन
Hindi (Devanagari)
Nicknames & Short Forms
Middle Name Suggestions
Beautiful middle name pairings with Irene:
Irene Elizabeth
Irene Catherine
Irene Victoria
Irene Rose
Irene Grace
Irene Anne
Irene Louise
Irene Margaret
Irene Therese
Irene Beatrice
Fun Facts & Trivia
Irene was the most popular girl's name in the U.S. in 1910.
The goddess Eirene was honored in ancient Greek festivals for peace.
It's the name of a moon of Saturn, discovered in 1906.
Irene means 'peace' and was used in early Christian martyr stories.
The name declined post-1940s but sees vintage revivals today.
Irene Adler is famously 'the woman' in Sherlock Holmes lore.
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Quick Facts
This page is reviewed by the Baby Billboard Charts editorial team. Rankings come from official U.S. Social Security Administration birth records, with descriptions checked for clarity and usefulness. See our Editorial Policy for our methodology and correction process.