Peter

Peter is a male given name of Greek origin, derived from Petros, meaning “rock” or “stone.” The name became widespread in Christian contexts thanks to Saint Peter, one of Jesus’s original apostles, and it has since been used across many cultures and languages.

Etymology and variants: Petros is the Greek form; Latinised as Petros or Petrus. In other languages, common forms include Pierre (French), Pedro (Spanish and Portuguese), Pietro (Italian), Piotr (Polish), Petr (Czech and Slovak), Petar (South Slavic), and Per (Scandinavian). The root meaning is closely associated with firmness or solidity.

Saint Peter: In the New Testament, Peter is among Jesus’s closest followers and is portrayed as a leader among the apostles. In Catholic tradition, he is regarded as the first pope and the fountain of papal authority; in other Christian traditions, he is venerated as a saint and bishop. He is traditionally believed to have preached in Jerusalem and to have authored two epistles, and he is understood to have been martyred in Rome by crucifixion.

Notable uses: The name has been borne by many figures, including Peter the Great, the 17th–18th century Russian tsar who modernized the state; in fiction, Peter Pan and Peter Parker (Spider-Man). In music and film, figures such as Peter Gabriel and Peter O’Toole have contributed to the name’s visibility.

Usage and distribution: Peter remains a common given name in Europe, the Americas, and parts of Asia, with many local variants. It has also become a surname and appears in various place names in different regions.