Iris is the daughter of Thaumas and Elektra, and has a sister of the Harpies. Her name also means rainbow, which is implies that her presence is a sign of hope.

In the Iliad, she has an essential role as the messenger of Zeus. She is very loyal with other immortals, such as Aphrodite. For example, when Aphrodite was wounded at Troy, the generous Iris drove the injured goddess to Mt. Olympus to be treated for her wounds.