📅 Since 1880🏆 117 years in top 1000.45% of births at peak
How to pronounce Peter
PEE·ter
/ˈpiː.tɝ/ · stress on PEE · 2 syllables
“rock, stone”
Greece origin · Boy name
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.
Holding steady — currently #210 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#210 · Top 0.15%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
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
▼ down 10 · -29% births
1970
#44
8,058
▼ down 5 · -14% births
1965
#39
9,394
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Peter
1955Rank #35
11,002
#93
↘Falling
1900 - 202328 years
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.
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 P IY1 T ER0. 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.
Sibling names that pair with Peter
For a sister
Peter & Theo♡
Peter & Lydia♡
Peter & Helen♡
Peter & Helena♡
For a brother
Peter & Thomas♡
Peter & Theo♡
Peter & Lydia♡
Peter & Theodore♡
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