Definition of peter

The name Peter, which is popularly used as a given name across various cultures, has its roots in ancient Greek and Latin. In Greek, the name is Petros, which is derived from the word petra, meaning "rock" or "stone". This name was initially used as a nickname or a descriptive surname for people who worked with rocks or stones. In Latin, the name evolved into Petrus, which was later Anglicized as Peter in the English language. The name Peter has been popularly associated with Saint Peter, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ, who is venerated as the first pope and the patron saint of fishermen and Catholics. The popularity of the name Peter can also be traced back to medieval times when it served as a symbolic representation of strength, stability, and steadfastness. It gained widespread acceptance and became a common Baptismal and Confirmation name, with notable historical figures bearing this name such as Peter the Great, the legendary Peter Pan, and Peter the Hermit, who led the First Crusade in the 11th century CE. In contemporary times, the name Peter is still widely used across various cultures and languages, and it continues to connote a sense of credibility, reliability, and trustworthiness, making it a popular choice for parents naming their infants.