Peterson Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Peterson
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name PETERSON. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Peterson
Gender
Male
Origin
Christian
Lucky Number
4
Meaning of the Name
Peterson is a patronymic surname of Scandinavian and English origin, meaning 'son of Peter.' In Christian contexts, it may reflect a family's historical connection to Saint Peter, a key apostle in Christianity.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Uranus (Rahu)
Positive Nature
Strong sense of order, loyal, practical, and disciplined.
Negative Traits
Stubborn, overly serious, rigid, and prone to feeling restricted.
Lucky Colours
Blue, gray.
Lucky Days
Saturday.
Lucky Stones
Blue sapphire.
Harmony Numbers
1, 7, 8.
Best Suited Professions
Managers, engineers, accountants, organizers.
What People Like About You
Dependability, discipline, practicality.
Famous People Named Peterson
Jordan Peterson
Clinical Psychologist and Professor
Renowned author of '12 Rules for Life' and influential public intellectual
Oscar Peterson
Jazz Pianist and Composer
One of the greatest jazz pianists of all time, won 8 Grammy Awards
Adrian Peterson
Professional Football Player
NFL MVP and one of the greatest running backs in football history
William Peterson
Actor
Star of CSI: Crime Scene Investigation and Broadway productions
Roger Tory Peterson
Ornithologist and Artist
Created the Peterson Field Guide series, revolutionizing bird identification
Name Variations & International Equivalents
Click on blue names to explore their detailed meanings. Gray names with will be available soon.
Cultural & Historical Significance
Extended Personality Analysis
The name Peterson evokes a personality profile characterized by stability, reliability, and quiet strength. Those bearing this name are often perceived as the 'rock' in their relationships and communities—people others turn to in times of crisis. They typically exhibit practical intelligence, approaching problems with systematic thinking and measured responses rather than emotional reactions. This grounded nature is complemented by a strong sense of duty and loyalty, making Petersons dependable friends and committed partners. While they may appear reserved initially, this often masks deep emotional depth and careful observation skills. Many Petersons demonstrate natural leadership qualities, not through charismatic dominance but through consistent competence and ethical integrity. Their decision-making tends to be deliberate and well-considered, reflecting the name's symbolic connection to enduring foundations. This combination of reliability, intelligence, and moral strength makes individuals named Peterson often sought out for guidance and trusted with responsibility.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary naming practices, Peterson occupies an interesting space between traditional given name and modern surname-first trend. While not among the most popular names statistically, it has maintained consistent usage particularly in Scandinavian-American communities and among families valuing heritage names. The name saw a noticeable uptick in the early 2000s as part of the broader trend of using surnames as first names, appealing to parents seeking strong, distinctive names with historical depth. Modern Petersons often benefit from the name's professional and academic associations—it conveys seriousness and capability without being overly common. The name's flexibility allows for various nicknames (Pete, Sonny, P.J.) while maintaining formal dignity in professional contexts. Current usage patterns show Peterson being chosen by parents who value tradition but want something less common than traditional biblical names, positioning it as a sophisticated choice that bridges historical significance with contemporary appeal.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Peterson represents multiple layers of meaning that converge around themes of foundation, heritage, and enduring strength. The core meaning of 'rock' connects to geological stability—suggesting someone who provides shelter, stands firm against adversity, and serves as a reliable point of reference. This rock symbolism extends metaphorically to represent moral fortitude, unwavering principles, and emotional resilience. The patronymic '-son' element adds crucial dimensions of lineage, continuity, and the transmission of values across generations. In Christian symbolism, the connection to Saint Peter reinforces themes of faith, leadership, and spiritual cornerstone. The name also carries connotations of craftsmanship and building—suggesting someone who constructs lasting legacies whether in relationships, careers, or communities. Together, these symbolic elements paint Peterson as representing both individual strength and interconnected heritage, personal integrity and communal responsibility, making it a name rich with metaphorical depth and aspirational qualities.