Last Name Irene

Learn more about the origin of the last name Irene

The meaning and origin of the last name Irene

The surname Irene has its origins in Greece and is derived from the Greek name "Ειρήνη" (Eirēnē), meaning "peace." It was a popular name among early Christians, most notably St. Irene of Thessalonica, who was known for her piety and martyrdom. The name was later adopted as a surname in various countries, particularly in English-speaking regions. Individuals with the surname Irene are often associated with qualities such as harmony, tranquility, and unity. Overall, the surname Irene carries a positive connotation and is often seen as a symbol of peace and serenity.

Geographical distribution of the last name Irene

The last name Irene has a relatively sparse geographical distribution, with concentrations in countries such as Greece, Italy, and Spain. In Greece, the name Irene is of Greek origin and is more commonly found in regions such as Athens and Thessaloniki. In Italy, the name Irene is also popular, particularly in regions like Sicily and Calabria. Similarly, in Spain, the name Irene can be found in areas such as Madrid and Barcelona. Outside of Europe, the name Irene is less prevalent, but can still be found in countries with historical ties to Greek or Roman culture. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Irene suggests a strong presence in Southern Europe, with pockets of occurrence in other regions influenced by Greek and Roman civilizations.

Variants and spellings of the last name Irene

The last name "Irene" may have several variations and spellings, including Irine, Ireen, Irena, and Yrene. It could also be spelled as Ayrene or Eirene. These variations may be influenced by different regional pronunciations and dialects. Additionally, the last name Irene could also be anglicized as "Ireen" or "Ireene" based on individual preferences or historical transliterations. In some cases, the last name may have different spellings due to typographical errors or changes in family history. Overall, the last name Irene has a number of potential variations and spellings that may be used by individuals or families around the world.

Famous people with the last name Irene

There are not any well-known individuals with the last name Irene. The last name Irene is not a common surname used by famous people or public figures. It is possible that there may be individuals with the first name Irene who are famous, such as actress Irene Dunne or actress Irene Cara, but as for individuals with the last name Irene, none come to mind. This may be due to the fact that Irene is commonly used as a first name rather than a last name. However, this does not diminish the significance of individuals with the last name Irene who may have made notable contributions in their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Irene

The last name Irene has origins in Greek mythology, where it is derived from the name of the Greek goddess Eirene, who was the personification of peace. In terms of genealogy, the surname Irene can be traced back to various regions around the world, including Greece, Italy, and France. The name may have been adopted as a surname by families who were devoted to the values of peace and harmony. Over time, the surname Irene may have spread to different countries due to migration and intermarriage. Today, individuals with the last name Irene can be found in various parts of the world, each with their own unique family history and lineage. Researchers interested in tracing the genealogy of the last name Irene may need to explore historical records, immigration documents, and other genealogical resources to uncover their family tree and ancestry.