Irian is a unique and captivating name of Irish origin. It is derived from the ancient Irish name Eirian, which means "peace" or "west". In Gaelic, it is pronounced as "EER-ee-an".
The name Irian has a rich history dating back to medieval Ireland. It was borne by several early Irish saints, including Saint Eirian of Llanbadarn Fawr, who was a 6th-century British saint and abbot. This association with sanctity has contributed to the name's enduring popularity in Ireland over centuries.
Irian is also known for its connection to the legendary figure of Queen Maeve (also spelled Medb), a powerful queen of Connacht in Irish mythology. According to the tales, she had a horse named Eirian, which was one of her most prized possessions.
In terms of popularity, Irian is not as widely used as some other Irish names, but it remains a beloved choice among families who appreciate its unique sound and rich history. It has gained some attention in recent years due to the success of Irish actress Domhnall Gleeson's character "Iris" in the Harry Potter films, although the spelling differs slightly.
Overall, Irian is an attractive name that combines the allure of ancient Ireland with a modern, distinctive edge. Its meaning and history make it a strong choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their child.
Between the years of 1996 and 2000, the name Irian gained some popularity in the United States with a total of 15 newborns being given this unique name over these four years. The year 1996 saw 9 births with this name, while three years later in the year 2000, there were 6 recorded births for Irian. Although it was not one of the most common names during this period, it certainly held its own as a distinctive choice among new parents.