Kyrie

Kyrie is a given name of Greek origin, derived from Kyrios, meaning "lord." In Christian liturgy, the term is heard in phrases such as Kyrie eleison, meaning "Lord, have mercy," and the short form Kyrie is sometimes used in liturgical contexts as well. The name has been adopted in various English-speaking cultures and can be used for both boys and girls, though usage patterns have varied over time and by region.

In contemporary use, Kyrie is most widely recognized as a given name due to public figures such as Kyrie Irving (born 1992), an American professional basketball player who has played for several NBA teams, including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics, Brooklyn Nets, and Dallas Mavericks. The name has also appeared in popular culture beyond individuals, most notably as the title of the 1985 hit song "Kyrie" by the band Mr. Mister, which contributed to the name’s visibility in the United States and other English-speaking countries.

Beyond personal name usage, Kyrie remains part of liturgical language in Western Christian rites, where Kyrie eleison is sung or recited as a prayer for mercy. The term thus functions both as a historical liturgical element and as a modern personal name, with its roots tracing back to the ancient Greek word for "lord."