iris
UK: ˈaɪ.rɪs | US: ˈaɪ.rɪs
n. 1. The colored circular part of the eye surrounding the pupil.
n. 2. A plant with showy flowers and sword-shaped leaves (genus Iris).
n. 3. (Meteorology) A rainbow or rainbow-like effect.
The word "iris" originates directly from Greek ἶρις (îris), meaning "rainbow." In Greek mythology, Iris was the goddess of the rainbow and a messenger of the gods. The term was later adopted into Latin and English, retaining its core meaning of "rainbow" while also being applied to the eye's colorful membrane and the flower (due to its vibrant hues). The connection between the eye part and the rainbow lies in their shared spectrum of colors.
Her bright blue iris contrasted sharply with the white of her eye.
The garden was filled with purple irises blooming in spring.
A faint iris appeared in the sky after the summer rain.
The optometrist examined the patient’s iris for signs of disease.
In Greek art, Iris is often depicted with wings and a rainbow.