Of Greek origin.
From the name Ειρήνη (Eirene), derived from the word “ειρήνη”, meaning peace.
Eirene, was one of the Greek Horae, meaning Hours, that were the goddesses of the seasons and the natural portions of time.
She was the daughter of Zeus and Themis.
Several early Christian saints were named Ειρήνη.
It was common in the Byzantine Empire and it was the name of the first woman to lead the empire.
In the English speaking world, it was regularly used since the 19th century.
Other forms and languages: Irina, Eireen, Iria, Irena, Ira, Iryna, Irenka.
Irene is a popular name in Spain and Greece.
Famous bearers are Irene Joliot Curie, Irene Cara, Irene Jacob, Irene Papas, Irene Dunne.