ειρήνη
Lemma: ειρήνη
Translation: peace; tranquility; harmony (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek εἰρήνη (eirḗnē), meaning 'peace'. In Greek mythology, Eirene was the goddess of peace, one of the Horae (Hours), daughters of Zeus and Themis. The English word 'irenic' (promoting peace) derives from the same root. The concept was so important in ancient Greek culture that it was personified as a goddess.
Example Usage
Η ειρήνη είναι πολύτιμη για όλους τους λαούς.
Peace is precious for all peoples.
Υπέγραψαν συνθήκη ειρήνης μετά από χρόνια πολέμου.
They signed a peace treaty after years of war.
Ζούμε σε καιρό ειρήνης.
We live in a time of peace.
Ειρήνη υμίν.
Peace be with you.
Θέλουμε ειρήνη στον κόσμο.
We want peace in the world.
Η ειρήνη είναι πολύτιμη.
Peace is precious.
Υπέγραψαν συνθήκη ειρήνης.
They signed a peace treaty.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'irenic' (promoting peace) in English to remember ειρήνη means 'peace'
- The name 'Irene' comes from this Greek word for peace
Cultural Context
A highly valued concept in Greek culture, both ancient and modern. Greece has experienced numerous conflicts throughout its history, making peace a particularly meaningful concept. The white dove with an olive branch is a common symbol of peace in Greek culture, dating back to ancient times.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: When capitalized, Ειρήνη is a common female name in Greece, while the lowercase ειρήνη means 'peace'.
Confused word:
Η Ειρήνη είναι η αδερφή μου.
Irene is my sister.
Notes: The name Ειρήνη (Irene) is popular in Greece precisely because of the positive associations with peace.
Mnemonic: Remember: lowercase for the concept, capital for the person.