What does Petra mean and where does it come from?
The name Petra has its origins in both Greek and Latin, deriving from 'petra', meaning 'rock' or 'stone'. It is a popular name in various countries and cultures, including Greece, Italy, and among Slavic populations. Historically, Saint Peter, whose name derives from the same root word, has contribu
Cultural significance
Petra has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of rock, stone.
Peak popularity
Reached #435 in 1894 — currently #1372 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Petra?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Petra?
Petra works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Petra Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Petra Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Petra Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Petra Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Petra Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Petra Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Petra right now?
Rising fast — up 118 spots — currently #1372 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #1372 | 161 | ▲ up 118 · +10% births |
| 2024 | #1490 | 147 | ▼ down 17 · -1% births |
| 2023 | #1473 | 149 | ▲ up 63 · +6% births |
| 2022 | #1536 | 140 | ▼ down 106 · -7% births |
| 2021 | #1430 | 151 | ▼ down 145 · -12% births |
| 2020 | #1285 | 171 | ▲ up 61 · -3% births |
| 2015 | #1346 | 176 | ▲ up 664 · +78% births |
| 2010 | #2010 | 99 | ▼ down 372 · -19% births |
| 2005 | #1638 | 122 | ▲ up 231 · +34% births |
| 2000 | #1869 | 91 | ▼ down 83 · +14% births |
| 1995 | #1786 | 80 | ▲ up 79 · +5% births |
| 1990 | #1865 | 76 | ▼ down 454 · -16% births |
| 1985 | #1411 | 90 | ▼ down 248 · -22% births |
| 1980 | #1163 | 116 | ▼ down 17 · +15% births |
| 1975 | #1146 | 101 | — |
The story of Petra
Petra has been a beloved American name for over 143 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1881. A total of 13,863 babies have received this name. Once ranked #573 in 1885, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1473 in 2023. Petra is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Petra in 1894:
Petra by decade
Petra peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 136 | |
| 1890s | 257 | |
| 1900s | 407 | |
| 1910s | 1,012 | |
| 1920s ★ | 1,822 | |
| 1930s | 1,325 | |
| 1940s | 1,065 | |
| 1950s | 1,059 | |
| 1960s | 1,255 | |
| 1970s | 1,170 | |
| 1980s | 881 | |
| 1990s | 826 | |
| 2000s | 1,046 | |
| 2010s | 1,431 | |
| 2020s | 479 | |
What are good nicknames for Petra?
What names sound and feel like Petra?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Petra also consider these
How is Petra written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Petra?
Common questions about the name Petra
What does the name Petra mean?
Petra 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 Petra?
Petra is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Petra?
Petra 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 Petra?
Petra is a two-syllable name pronounced PETR-uh. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Petra a common or rare name?
Petra is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.