What does Peter mean and where does it come from?
The name Peter is derived from the Greek word 'petros' which means rock or stone. Traditionally a male name, it has been occasionally used as a female name, usually in modern contexts or interpretations. Its use as a female name may reflect a trend where traditionally male names are adapted for wome
Cultural significance
Peter has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of rock, stone.
Peak popularity
Reached #31 in 1880 — currently #187 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Peter?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Peter?
Peter works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Peter Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Peter John
One syllable · timeless choice
Peter Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Peter Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Peter Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Peter Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Peter right now?
Holding steady — currently #187 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #187 | 1,954 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2024 | #192 | 1,899 | ▲ up 18 · +9% births |
| 2023 | #210 | 1,749 | ▲ up 3 · -1% births |
| 2022 | #213 | 1,773 | ▲ up 2 · -1% births |
| 2021 | #215 | 1,785 | ▼ down 1 · +2% births |
| 2020 | #214 | 1,747 | ▼ down 9 · -10% births |
| 2015 | #205 | 1,933 | ▼ down 12 |
| 2010 | #193 | 1,932 | ▼ down 32 · -24% births |
| 2005 | #161 | 2,552 | ▼ down 36 · -19% births |
| 2000 | #125 | 3,146 | ▼ down 36 · -23% births |
| 1995 | #89 | 4,112 | ▼ down 15 · -21% births |
| 1990 | #74 | 5,218 | ▼ down 14 · -8% births |
| 1985 | #60 | 5,664 | ▼ down 5 · -5% births |
| 1980 | #55 | 5,966 | ▼ down 1 · +5% births |
| 1975 | #54 | 5,706 | — |
The story of Peter
Peter has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #31 in 1880. Over 582K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. Peter is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Peter in 1880:
Peter by decade
Peter peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 4,662 | |
| 1890s | 4,034 | |
| 1900s | 4,382 | |
| 1910s | 25,039 | |
| 1920s | 34,274 | |
| 1930s | 35,978 | |
| 1940s | 69,514 | |
| 1950s ★ | 102,892 | |
| 1960s | 92,681 | |
| 1970s | 62,702 | |
| 1980s | 57,069 | |
| 1990s | 42,478 | |
| 2000s | 26,135 | |
| 2010s | 18,673 | |
| 2020s | 5,600 | |
What are good nicknames for Peter?
What names sound and feel like Peter?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Peter also consider these
How is Peter written in other languages?
What are the girl versions of Peter?
Common questions about the name Peter
What does the name Peter mean?
Peter means "rock, stone" — a name rooted in Greece 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 Peter?
Peter is currently ranked #210 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Peter?
Peter originates from Greece tradition. Greece names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Peter?
Peter is a two-syllable name pronounced PEE-ter. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Peter more of a girl or boy name?
Peter is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.