The name Peter means “stone” or “rock” and originates from Ancient Greek. It is a common masculine given name that has maintained an enduring presence across multiple centuries. Parents exploring traditional baby name meanings frequently return to this classic option because of its simple spelling, clear sound, and longstanding familiarity.
As a male given name from Ancient Greek, Peter carries a defined etymology passed down through Greek, Latin, Old English, and Middle English. Its journey into modern everyday usage reflects both linguistic shifts and deep historical traditions.
Meaning and Origin
Peter is a common masculine given name derived directly from the Greek name Πέτρος (Petros). That Greek form was originally a translation of the Aramaic name Kefa, which Jesus gave to the apostle Simon bar Jonah as a new name.
The historical development of the name moved through several linguistic stages. In English, the modern spelling Peter developed from Middle English Peter, which descended from Old English Petrus. Old English borrowed the name from Latin Petrus, which was adopted from the Ancient Greek Πέτρος (Pétros). That Greek name derived from the ancient noun πέτρος (pétros), which translates directly to “stone” or “rock.”
Pronunciation
Peter is pronounced PEE-ter in standard American English. The first syllable rhymes with see, while the second syllable rhymes with her. Emphasis is placed on the first syllable, creating a simple two-syllable rhythm that is balanced and easy to say.
Popularity in the United States
Peter first appears in the SSA data in 1880, reaching its peak rank of number 31 in that same year, and it is most often given to boys. The name continued to see steady use through the twentieth century, ranking at number 37 in 1950 with 8,362 babies and holding spot number 55 in 1980 with 5,967 babies. By the turn of the century, Peter shifted to rank number 125 in 2000 with 3,148 babies, and it later reached number 193 in 2010 with 1,935 babies. In more recent counts, the name stood at number 215 in 2020 with 1,762 babies before moving up to its latest rank of number 187 in 2025 with 1,954 babies. Across the entire historical span since 1880, a total of 589,588 US boys have received the name.
| Year | US rank (boys) | Babies named Peter |
|---|---|---|
| 1950 | #37 | 8,362 |
| 1980 | #55 | 5,967 |
| 2000 | #125 | 3,148 |
| 2010 | #193 | 1,935 |
| 2020 | #215 | 1,762 |
| 2025 | #187 | 1,954 |
Source: US Social Security Administration baby name data (names given to at least 5 babies in a year).
Nicknames
Common short forms for Peter include Pete and Petey. In addition, other-language forms and doublets associated with the name include Pedro, Piers, and Boutros. An Old English variant of the name is Piers. These related forms provide varied options while retaining an etymological connection to the original name.
Famous People Named Peter
- Peter Jackson is an Academy Award-winning New Zealand filmmaker, director, and screenwriter best known for directing The Lord of the Rings film trilogy.
- Peter Dinklage is an American actor who gained widespread critical acclaim and multiple Emmy Awards for his performance as Tyrion Lannister in the television drama series Game of Thrones.
- Peter Gabriel is an English musician, singer, and songwriter who first found international recognition as the lead singer of the progressive rock group Genesis before launching an acclaimed solo career.
Middle and Sibling Names
Strong middle names that pair well with Peter include James, William, Alexander, Benjamin, Samuel, and Thomas.
Complementary sibling names include Lucas, Henry, Clara, Grace, Charlotte, and Sarah.
FAQ
What ancient root word gave rise to the name Peter?
The name Peter comes directly from the Ancient Greek noun πέτρος (pétros), which translates to “stone” or “rock.” This vocabulary word formed the foundation for the Ancient Greek masculine name Πέτρος (Pétros). That Greek name was subsequently used as a translation for the Aramaic name Kefa, which Jesus gave to the apostle Simon bar Jonah.
When did Peter first appear in United States annual baby name data?
Peter first appears in the official United States annual baby name data in the year 1880. In that initial year of federal tracking, the name stood at rank number 31, which remains its all-time highest position. Over the decades that followed, the name maintained steady placement across American naming history.
How does the peak ranking of Peter compare to its modern position?
Peter reached its peak ranking at number 31 in 1880, whereas its latest position in 2025 was number 187. In 1880, the name held its highest spot on the charts, while in 2025 it was given to 1,954 baby boys. Although it has shifted downward from its nineteenth-century peak, it remains firmly within the top two hundred names in the country.
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