Irena
Meaning of Irena
The name Irena is a beautiful and timeless choice for baby girls, with roots deeply embedded in Greek and Slavic cultures. Derived from the Greek word "eirēnē," meaning "peace," Irena embodies tranquility and harmony. In Polish, it is pronounced as ee-REH-nah (/i-ˈrɛ-na/), while in English, it is commonly pronounced as eye-REE-nuh (/aɪ-ˈri-nə/). A notable variation of this name is Irene. Despite its classic appeal, Irena remains relatively uncommon in the United States, consistently ranking in the lower tiers of baby name popularity over the past century. However, its rarity only adds to its charm, making it a unique yet culturally rich choice for parents seeking a name that exudes both elegance and serenity.
Pronunciation
Polish
- Pronunced as ee-REH-nah (/i-ˈrɛ-na/)
English
- Pronunced as eye-REE-nuh (/aɪ-ˈri-nə/)
U.S. Popularity Chart
Notable People Named Irena
| Irena Sendler, also known as Irena Sendlerowa, was a Polish humanitarian and nurse who bravely served in the Polish Underground Resistance during World War II, particularly helping Jewish children in German-occupied Warsaw. |
| Irena Szewińska was a legendary Polish sprinter and the only athlete to have held world records in the 100m, 200m, and 400m events. |
| Irena Blühová was a pioneering Slovak photographer known for her documentary work and social commentary, as well as her involvement in the resistance movement during World War II. |
| Irena Sibley, also known as Irena Justina Pauliukonis, was a talented Australian artist, writer, illustrator of children's books, and art teacher. |
| Irena McCammon Scott is an American author and physiologist with degrees from Ohio State University, the University of Nevada, and the University of Missouri. |
