Greek Origin

Peter

Derived from the Greek Petros, meaning 'stone' or 'rock,' Peter carries profound biblical significance as the name Jesus gave to his apostle Simon, symbolizing him as the foundation of the church. The name has dominated Western culture for nearly two millennia, borne by saints, emperors, and democratic leaders, making it one of the most universally recognized and trusted names in the world.

Peter is a boy's name of Greek origin. Derived from the Greek Petros, meaning 'stone' or 'rock,' Peter carries profound biblical significance as the name Jesus gave to his apostle Simon, symbolizing him as the foundation of the church. The name has dominated Western culture for nearly two millennia, borne by saints, emperors, and democratic leaders, making it one of the most universally recognized and trusted names in the world.

One of the most consistently popular names across Christian-influenced cultures; appears in countless folk tales (Peter Pan, Peter Rabbit) and remains a top choice for its classic, reliable character.

Origin & Etymology

The name Peter has roots in the Greek language tradition. It derives from elements meaning “Derived from the Greek Petros, meaning 'stone' or 'rock,' Peter carries profound biblical significance as the name Jesus gave to his apostle Simon, symbolizing him as the foundation of the church”.

Cultural context: One of the most consistently popular names across Christian-influenced cultures; appears in countless folk tales (Peter Pan, Peter Rabbit) and remains a top choice for its classic, reliable character.

As a boy's name, Peter carries the character of its Greek heritage while remaining a distinctive and uncommon choice for parents seeking something unique.

Popularity Trend
Famous Peters8
P

Peter Parker

FictionalAmerican

Spider-Man, Marvel superhero, genius teenager with spider powers

Marvel Comics superhero better known as Spider-Man, a genius teenager who gained spider-like powers after being bitten by a radioactive spider and balances a secret identity with his responsibilities.

From: Marvel Comics

P

Peter Pan

FictionalBritish

The boy who never grows up, Neverland, literary icon of youth and imagination

Literary and fictional character who is the boy who never grows up, living in Neverland with his Lost Boys and engaging in adventures against the pirate Captain Hook.

From: Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie

P

Peter Jackson

EntertainmentNew Zealander

Director of Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies, Academy Award winner

New Zealand filmmaker best known for directing 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy and 'The Hobbit' trilogy, revolutionizing fantasy filmmaking and winning multiple Academy Awards.

1961 – present

P

Peter Frampton

EntertainmentBritish

'Frampton Comes Alive!', rock guitarist, talk box innovator

British-American rock musician and guitarist best known for his 1976 album 'Frampton Comes Alive!' and his distinctive guitar work and vocal style in rock music.

1950 – present

P

Peter Fonda

EntertainmentAmerican

Easy Rider producer/star, counterculture icon, Ulee's Gold actor

American actor and filmmaker known for producing and starring in the counterculture classic 'Easy Rider' (1969), and his roles in numerous films including 'Ulee's Gold'.

1940 – 2019

P

Peter Benchley

Arts & LiteratureAmerican

Author of Jaws, pioneered the modern thriller novel

American author best known for writing 'Jaws' (1974), the thriller novel that was adapted into Steven Spielberg's iconic film and revolutionized popular fiction.

1940 – 2006

P

Peter Sellers

EntertainmentBritish

Inspector Clouseau, Dr. Strangelove, Goon Show performer, British comedy legend

British actor and comedian best known for his roles as Inspector Clouseau in 'The Pink Panther' films and multiple characters in Stanley Kubrick's 'Dr. Strangelove'.

1925 – 1980

P

Peter Ustinov

EntertainmentBritish

Academy Award-winning actor, Hercule Poirot, playwright and director

British-Russian actor, playwright, and director known for his roles as Hercule Poirot, his Academy Award-winning performances, and his extensive work across theater, film, and television.

1921 – 2004

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Peter mean?

Peter means "Derived from the Greek Petros, meaning 'stone' or 'rock,' Peter carries profound biblical significance as the name Jesus gave to his apostle Simon, symbolizing him as the foundation of the church. The name has dominated Western culture for nearly two millennia, borne by saints, emperors, and democratic leaders, making it one of the most universally recognized and trusted names in the world.", and is of Greek origin.

Is Peter a boy name?

Peter is primarily used as a boy's name.

What is the origin of the name Peter?

Peter is of Greek origin. One of the most consistently popular names across Christian-influenced cultures; appears in countless folk tales (Peter Pan, Peter Rabbit) and remains a top choice for its classic, reliable character.

Quick Facts
Gender

Boy

Syllables

2

Origin

Greek

Save This Name

Create an account to save names and share with your partner.