Peter

What does the baby name Peter mean? Learn about what Peter means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Peter - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Peter: P-E-T-E-R, is a 5-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Peter: PEE-tər; PEE ter
Meaning of Peter: Rock, a stone or rock, stone.
Origin of Peter: The name 'Peter' finds its origins in ancient Greece. It is derived from the Greek name Petros, which means 'rock' or 'stone'. This name holds great historical and biblical significance, as it was the name given to one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. Saint 'Peter', also known as Simon 'Peter', was considered the rock upon which the Christian church was built. The earliest known use of the name 'Peter' dates back to the 1st century.; American Names; Australian Names; Biblical Names; British Names; Canadian Names; Christian Names; Classic Names; Danish Names; Dutch Names; English Names; German Names; Greek Names; Hebrew Names; Hungarian Names; Latin Names; Literary Names; Saints Names; Shakespeare Names; Slovenian Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Peter: Boutros; Panos; Parnal; Peadair; Peadar; Pearce; Pedar; Peder; Pedrinho; Pedro; Peerus; Peet; Peeter; Peka; Pekka; Per; Perkin; Pero; Perrin; Perry; Person; Pete; Petr; Petros; Petru; Pewlin; Piera; Piero; Pierre; Piet; Pieter; Pietrek; Pietro; Piotr; Pjotr; Pyotr
Popularity of Peter: Throughout history, the name 'Peter' has experienced varying levels of popularity. In ancient times, it was a common name among the Jewish community. However, it gained widespread popularity and became one of the most popular names in Christian societies due to its association with Saint 'Peter'. The name 'Peter' reached its peak popularity in the 1950s and 1960s, consistently ranking among the top 20 names for boys in the United States. Since then, its popularity has gradually declined, but it still remains a well-known and respected name.; Peter currently has 646 likes, and is in the top 1% of liked boy's names. The name Oscar is slightly more popular than Peter.

Etymology of Peter

The etymology of the name 'Peter' can be traced back to the Greek word 'petra', which means 'rock' or 'stone'. This word, in turn, has its roots in the Proto-Indo-European language. The name 'Peter' has also been influenced by other languages, such as Latin, where it is spelled as 'Petrus'. The linguistic roots of this name highlight its enduring and solid nature, symbolizing strength and stability.

Cultural Significance of Peter

The name 'Peter' holds immense cultural significance, particularly in Christian traditions. Saint 'Peter', as mentioned earlier, played a pivotal role in the establishment of the early Christian church. He is revered as the first Pope and is considered a prominent figure in Christianity. Due to this association, the name 'Peter' is often chosen by parents who wish to honor their religious beliefs and heritage.