How to say "iris" in Japanese

Choosing the right word

アイリスCommon
nounA katakana loanword, アイリス is a common word for the iris flower. For the flower in everyday contexts, this is the word you will usually want.
アイリス、君きみは普段ふだん朝食ちょうしょくは何なんを食たべているの？↗
Iris, what do you usually eat for breakfast?
菖蒲アヤメ
nounA traditional Japanese name for the iris flower. It is less common than アイリス, and in ordinary talk about flowers アイリス is the usual choice.
虹彩こうさい
nounThe anatomical term for the iris of the eye, the colored part around the pupil. Use it in medical or scientific contexts; it is a less common, technical word and not a flower name.

For the iris flower, 「アイリス」 is the common word and 菖蒲 a less common native name; for the iris of the eye, use 虹彩.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

Japanese equivalents

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