The name Irwin has its roots in the Old English language and can be traced back to the Anglo-Saxon period in Britain. It is derived from the words "Ira" meaning "green" and "wine" meaning "friend," thus translating to "friend of the green meadow." The original spelling was "Irawin" or "Irawyn."

This name was particularly popular among the Anglo-Saxons who lived in the regions of Mercia and Northumbria, where the countryside was abundant with lush meadows and pastures. It was a common name given to boys born in rural areas or to those whose families were involved in agriculture or pastoral activities.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Irwin can be found in the Domesday Book, a survey of England commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086. The name appears as "Irewin" in several entries, indicating that it was already in use during the Norman period.

In the 12th century, the name Irwin was mentioned in the Pipe Rolls of Henry II, which were records of financial transactions and legal proceedings in medieval England. This suggests that the name had gained some prominence and was used by individuals of varying social ranks.

Throughout history, there have been several notable figures who bore the name Irwin. One of the earliest was Irwin of Stratton (c. 1150-1220), an English nobleman who served as Sheriff of Wiltshire and was a prominent figure during the reigns of Richard I and John.

Another famous Irwin was Irwin Gregor (c. 1470-1528), a Scottish clergyman and diplomat who served as Bishop of Dunblane and was involved in negotiations with England during the turbulent period of the Anglo-Scottish Wars.

In the 17th century, Irwin Hawkins (1623-1701) was an English mathematician and astronomer who made significant contributions to the field of navigation and was involved in the establishment of the Royal Observatory in Greenwich.

During the American Revolutionary War, Irwin McDowell (1754-1835) was a notable figure who served as a brigadier general in the Continental Army and played a role in several key battles, including the Battle of King's Mountain.

In the 20th century, Irwin Allen (1916-1991) was a renowned American film and television producer, best known for creating science fiction series such as "Lost in Space" and "The Time Tunnel," as well as disaster films like "The Poseidon Adventure" and "The Towering Inferno."