Irina


Irina is a feminine given name of Greek origin, commonly borne by followers of the Eastern Orthodox Church. It is derived from Eirene, an ancient Greek goddess, personification of peace.
Diminutive forms in Slavic languages include Ira, Irinka, Irinushka, Irisha, Irka, Irochka, Irinochka, and Irishenka.

Origin

Irina is connected with Irene of Macedonia who was the first woman recognized by the church as a great martyr. She was born pagan as Penelope and later baptized as Irene. Some sources refer to her being baptized by Saint Timothy, in which case she lived in the 1st–2nd century, while others date her death in the year 315. Opinions also differ about the location of her birthplace, the city of Magedon, placing it either in Persia or in Migdonia.

Notable people with this name

Nobility and politics