Iryna

Iryna is a female given name used in Ukrainian-speaking communities. It is the Ukrainian form of Irene, which ultimately derives from the Greek Eirene, meaning peace. The name is widely used in Ukraine and among Ukrainian communities abroad.

In terms of origin and usage, Ірина has been common in Ukraine since the spread of Christianity and remains popular today. The name has parallel forms in other Slavic languages, such as Irina in Russian, Irena in Polish and German, and Irène in French. In English-language contexts, Iryna typically signals Ukrainian origin, while Irina is often used for the corresponding Russian form.

Variants and diminutives in Ukrainian include Іра (Ira), Іринка (Irynka), Ірочка (Irochka), and Іриночка (Irynochka). These affectionate forms are common in family and social settings and may vary by region.

Notable people named Iryna include Iryna Vereshchuk, a Ukrainian politician and diplomat; Iryna Herashchenko, a Ukrainian politician; and Iryna Farion, a Ukrainian linguist and scholar. Their prominence reflects the name’s continued usage in public life in Ukraine.

Name days and cultural notes: In countries with name-day traditions, Iryna is associated with the feast days of Saint Irene or related names, with dates varying by calendar. The name remains a common choice in contemporary Ukraine and among the Ukrainian diaspora.