What does Peder mean and where does it come from?
Peder is a Scandinavian form of the name Peter, which is derived from the Greek 'petros,' meaning 'rock' or 'stone.' The name has historical significance in the region, with many notable figures in Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish history bearing the name. Variations of Peder include Pedar and Peeter.
Cultural significance
Peder has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Denmark-speaking communities, where it reflects values of danish.
Peak popularity
Reached #1238 in 1894 — currently #983 in the US.
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Related Reading
Denmark-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Peder?
Peder works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Peder Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Peder Rose
Floral · soft ending
Peder Mae
Sweet · timeless
Peder Claire
French influence · crisp
Peder Jane
Literary · strong
Peder Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Peder right now?
Holding steady — currently #983 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #983 | 1,217 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #988 | 1,197 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #993 | 1,167 | ▲ up 10540 · +23240% births |
| 2005 | #11533 | 5 | ▼ down 3282 · -29% births |
| 2000 | #8251 | 7 | ▼ down 2296 · -22% births |
| 1995 | #5955 | 9 | ▲ up 2259 · +80% births |
| 1990 | #8214 | 5 | ▼ down 4127 · -50% births |
| 1985 | #4087 | 10 | ▼ down 1532 · -47% births |
| 1980 | #2555 | 19 | ▼ down 326 · -5% births |
| 1975 | #2229 | 20 | ▲ up 7 · +18% births |
| 1970 | #2236 | 17 | ▼ down 120 · +13% births |
| 1965 | #2116 | 15 | ▲ up 812 · +67% births |
| 1960 | #2928 | 9 | ▼ down 447 · -18% births |
| 1955 | #2481 | 11 | ▲ up 6 · +10% births |
| 1950 | #2487 | 10 | — |
The story of Peder
Peder has been a beloved American name for over 130 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1894. With 798 total births recorded, Peder remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3470 in 1915 to #983 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Peder in 1894:
Peder by decade
Peder peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 5 | |
| 1900s | 5 | |
| 1910s | 38 | |
| 1920s | 18 | |
| 1930s | 45 | |
| 1940s | 92 | |
| 1950s | 103 | |
| 1960s | 112 | |
| 1970s ★ | 134 | |
| 1980s | 128 | |
| 1990s | 90 | |
| 2000s | 17 | |
| 2010s | 11 | |
💎Peder has only 798 total recorded births since 1894 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Peder?
What names sound and feel like Peder?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Peder also consider these
How is Peder written in other languages?
What are the girl versions of Peder?
Common questions about the name Peder
What does the name Peder mean?
Peder means "Danish" — a name rooted in Denmark tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Peder?
Peder is currently ranked #983 as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Peder?
Peder originates from Denmark tradition. Denmark names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Peder a common or rare name?
Peder is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Peder?
Peder naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.