Peer

/pɪər/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A member of the nobility in Britain; a noble.

The meeting included several peers of the realm discussing the new legislation.

A person who is equal to another in social standing or age.

He spent the summer working at a camp for underprivileged children, mentoring his peers.

A person who shares a position of equal rank or status.

In the world of academia, my peers often provide valuable feedback on my research.

verb

To look closely or with difficulty; to squint.

She had to peer through the fog to see the road ahead.

To come into view; to appear.

As the sun began to rise, the mountains started to peer over the horizon.

Middle English, from Old French 'per', from Latin 'paris' meaning equal.

peer pressure

Influence from members of one's peer group.

peer review

Evaluation of work by one or more people with similar competencies.

peer support

Emotional and practical help from individuals with similar experiences.

peership

The state of being a peer.

peers

Other individuals of the same group.

peerage

The system of peers, a rank of nobility.

To look closely or scrutinize.

I had to peer real hard to see what was going on.

A friend or mate.

Hey, what’s up, peer?