Discover given name insights instantly.

Uncover the origin, popularity, and more for any first name.

Name Origin

Peter is a masculine given name of Greek origin, derived from the name Πέτρος (Petros), meaning 'rock' or 'stone'. It is traditionally associated with Saint Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ.

greekchristianbiblicalsaintlystrengthfoundationreliability

Famous People

Peter the Great (1672-1725)

Tsar of Russia

  • Westernized Russia
  • Founded St. Petersburg
  • Expanded Russian Empire

Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640)

Painter

  • Baroque master
  • Known for religious and mythological paintings
  • Influential figure in Flemish art

Peter Higgs (1929-)

Theoretical physicist

  • Proposed the Higgs boson
  • Nobel Prize in Physics (2013)

Peter Dinklage (1969-)

Actor

  • Known for roles in 'Game of Thrones' and 'Station Agent'
  • Primetime Emmy Award winner

Peter Gabriel (1950-)

Musician, singer-songwriter

  • Founding member of the progressive rock band Genesis
  • Successful solo career with hits like 'Sledgehammer' and 'In Your Eyes'
  • Innovative use of world music influences in his work

Peter Jackson (1961-)

Film director, screenwriter, producer

  • Directed the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies
  • Known for his innovative use of special effects and large-scale productions