Definition of Iris:
- In Anatomy: The iris is the coloured part of the eye surrounding the pupil. It controls the diameter and size of the pupil and thus the amount of light that reaches the retina. Eye colour is determined by the amount and type of pigments in the iris.
- In Botany: Iris is also the name of a genus of flowering plants, known for their beautiful, showy flowers. The genus includes many species with a variety of colours, commonly found in temperate climates.
Etymology and Origin: The term ‘iris’ comes from the Greek word ‘ἶρις’, meaning ‘rainbow’. This is likely a reference to the iris of the eye’s various colours and the flower’s diverse and vibrant colouration. In Greek mythology, Iris was also the name of the goddess of the rainbow and messenger of the gods.
