Meaning & Definition of word "Peter"

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    Peter

    /ˈpiːtə/

    verb:

    • 1. To diminish or dwindle, especially gradually.
      • Example: As the day went on, our enthusiasm began to peter out.
    • 2. To fade away or be less vigorous.
      • Example: The excitement about the event started to peter off as time went by.

    proper noun:

    • 1. A male given name derived from the Greek 'petros', meaning 'rock' or 'stone'.
      • Example: Peter was chosen as the leader of the group due to his strong character.
    • 2. Used as a shorthand or nickname for someone named Peter.
      • Example: Hey, Peter, do you want to join us for dinner?
    • 3. Refers to Saint Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus and often regarded as the first Pope.
      • Example: In many Christian traditions, it is said that Saint Peter holds the keys to heaven.

    Etymology

    Origin uncertain, possibly derived from the name Peter, suggesting a gradual decline.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    peter out:

    to gradually decrease or come to an end

    petering:

    referring to a process of diminishing

    to peter away:

    to become less and less until nothing remains

    Related Words

    dwindle:

    to diminish gradually in size, amount, or strength

    fade:

    to lose brightness or vividness

    abate:

    to become less intense or widespread

    Slang Meanings of peter

    Meaning: a slang term for male genitals

    Example Sentence: He made a joke about his peter at the party.

    Meaning: to be defeated or to fail

    Example Sentence: If you keep pushing that hard, you might just peter out.