Irina

Origin

The name Irina is of Greek origin, derived from the Greek word 'Eirēnē' meaning 'peace'. It has been adopted into various languages and cultures through Christian influences, and has variants in Slavic and Eastern European traditions. In the context of Australian usage, it is primarily a name of Greek and Slavic origin, used across multicultural communities.

Meaning

The literal meaning of Irina is 'peace'. In Australian English contexts, it carries connotations of serenity and calmness, often appreciated for its gentle and harmonious sound.

Pronunciation

[ɪˈriːnə] (Australian English) 'ee-REE-nah', with emphasis on the second syllable, maintaining a soft and melodic tone akin to its Greek origins. Amended for Australian English pronunciation.

Variants & Nicknames

Name Days

• 21 August (Eastern Orthodox feast day of Saint Irina)
• 21 August (Catholic feast day, if observed)
• 26 August (Māori calendar, associated with cultural festivals)

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with irina:

• Emma and Olivia
• Charlotte and Matilda
• Sophie and Lily

Fun Facts

• Irina became popular in Australia following the influx of Eastern European immigrants in the 20th century.
• There is a notable Australian figure, Irina Dunn, a politician and author, who has contributed to Australian cultural and political discourse.
• The name Irina is often associated with artistic and literary personalities in multicultural Australia.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name irina:

• Peaceful
• Harmonious
• Gentle
• Calm-minded

Aesthetic Qualities

Irina has an elegant and timeless aesthetic, with a balanced, flowing visual form that is both graceful and easy to read in written form in Australian English.

Geographical Distribution

Most common in urban and multicultural areas, such as Sydney and Melbourne, where immigrant communities have influenced naming trends. Less common in rural or predominantly Anglo-Celtic communities.

Numerological Significance

Name number 7, often associated with introspection, spirituality, and analytical thinking. The number 7 highlights a contemplative nature and a quest for truth.

Astrological Connections

The name is associated with the zodiac sign Virgo, corresponding to traits like precision, humility, and service. It also resonates with the planet Mercury, symbolising communication and intelligence.

Historical Context

Historically, the name Irina has been borne by various saints and royal figures in Eastern Europe. In Australian history, figures like Irina Dunn have helped popularise the name among public figures. It's also a common name among immigrant communities from Greece, Eastern Europe, and Russia.

Linguistic Adaptability

The name adapts well into most Latin-based languages; in non-Latin scripts, it retains phonetic consistency, with minor variations in spelling for local orthographies.

Famous People Named irina

• Irina Dunn (Australian politician and publisher)
• Irina Slutsky (Australian film producer)
• Irina Lankova (Australian classical pianist)

Popularity in Australia