What is the poetic meaning of 'airen'?

I know the word's basic meaning, however I've read somewhere that it is something a husband would say to his wife in China and thus telling her that she is the most precious one to him. Is this true? Further more, I would like to gather some other forms from other languages such as Romanian or Greek of how would two paramours call each other, but that it has a deep meaning, something that would denote the strength of their bond and love. Thanks for all your help and answers! (^_^)