Pera

Unisex
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/ˈpɛ.rə/

Pera: a unisex name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from Latin “petra” (Petrus), from the Ancient Greek “pétrā ‎(πέτρᾱ) Pétros (Πέτρος),” from the Aramaic word “kephas,” which in turn derives from the Syriac “kefa,” all words meaning “stone, rock” (figurative meaning: reliable, stable and resolute)". It derives from the Greek word "kefa > Kēphâs > pétrā > Pétros > Petrus".

Pera is a both name that means "This name derives from Latin “petra” (Petrus), from the Ancient Greek “pétrā ‎(πέτρᾱ) Pétros (Πέτρος),” from the Aramaic word “kephas,” which in turn derives from the Syriac “kefa,” all words meaning “stone, rock” (figurative meaning: reliable, stable and resolute)". Its Greek origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.

Quick Facts About Pera

Quick facts about Pera
OriginGreek, Syriac-aramaic
GenderUnisex
PopularityUncommon

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from Latin “petra” (Petrus), from the Ancient Greek “pétrā ‎(πέτρᾱ) Pétros (Πέτρος),” from the Aramaic word “kephas,” which in turn derives from the Syriac “kefa,” all words meaning “stone, rock” (figurative meaning: reliable, stable and resolute). Saint Peter, according to ancient tradition, was a prominent early Christian leader, one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ, according to the New Testament. He is venerated as a saint and considered by the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and Oriental Orthodoxy to be the first bishop of Rome and the first Pope. Roman Catholics believe him to have been the first Pope and all subsequent popes to have been his successors, and therefore sometimes refer to the Pope or the Papacy itself as Peter.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

kefa > Kēphâs > pétrā > Pétros > Petrus

Other Scripts

Serbian (Перa)

How to Pronounce Pera

Pera is pronounced /ˈpɛ.rə/(Greek)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Per-a
  2. Say it like: "PER-A"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

This name has found popularity across croatian, serbian, and slovene speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.

croatianserbianslovene
Name Relationships

Pera is an affectionate diminutive of Petar, Petra, commonly used in croatian speaking regions. This shortened form maintains the original meaning while offering a more intimate, familiar tone.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pera
What does the name Pera mean?
Pera means "This name derives from Latin “petra” (Petrus), from the Ancient Greek “pétrā ‎(πέτρᾱ) Pétros (Πέτρος),” from the Aramaic word “kephas,” which in turn derives from the Syriac “kefa,” all words meaning “stone, rock” (figurative meaning: reliable, stable and resolute). Saint Peter, according to ancient tradition, was a prominent early Christian leader, one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ, according to the New Testament. He is venerated as a saint and considered by the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and Oriental Orthodoxy to be the first bishop of Rome and the first Pope. Roman Catholics believe him to have been the first Pope and all subsequent popes to have been his successors, and therefore sometimes refer to the Pope or the Papacy itself as Peter.". The name comes from kefa > Kēphâs > pétrā > Pétros > Petrus. In its original form, the name derives from Kēphâs (Κηφᾶς) Petr (פטר) pétrā ‎(πέτρᾱ) Pétros (Πέτρος). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Pera for children of any gender often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from Latin “petra” (Petrus), from the Ancient Greek “pétrā ‎(πέτρᾱ) Pétros (Πέτρος),” from the Aramaic word “kephas,” which in turn derives from the Syriac “kefa,” all words meaning “stone, rock” (figurative meaning: reliable, stable and resolute). Saint Peter, according to ancient tradition, was a prominent early Christian leader, one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ, according to the New Testament. He is venerated as a saint and considered by the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and Oriental Orthodoxy to be the first bishop of Rome and the first Pope. Roman Catholics believe him to have been the first Pope and all subsequent popes to have been his successors, and therefore sometimes refer to the Pope or the Papacy itself as Peter." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Pera offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices. The name is associated with qualities like BIBLICAL / RELIGION (BISHOPS) / RELIGION (POPES) / RELIGION (SAINTS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Pera?
Pera has greek and syriac-aramaic origins. The name traces back to kefa > Kēphâs > pétrā > Pétros > Petrus. The original form Kēphâs (Κηφᾶς) Petr (פטר) pétrā ‎(πέτρᾱ) Pétros (Πέτρος) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, Pera is written as Serbian (Перa). From its greek roots, Pera spread to become common in croatian, serbian, slovene. The greek meaning "This name derives from Latin “petra” (Petrus), from the Ancient Greek “pétrā ‎(πέτρᾱ) Pétros (Πέτρος),” from the Aramaic word “kephas,” which in turn derives from the Syriac “kefa,” all words meaning “stone, rock” (figurative meaning: reliable, stable and resolute). Saint Peter, according to ancient tradition, was a prominent early Christian leader, one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ, according to the New Testament. He is venerated as a saint and considered by the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and Oriental Orthodoxy to be the first bishop of Rome and the first Pope. Roman Catholics believe him to have been the first Pope and all subsequent popes to have been his successors, and therefore sometimes refer to the Pope or the Papacy itself as Peter." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Pera a boy or girl name?
Pera is a unisex name, given to both boys and girls. Unisex names have grown more popular since the 1990s, with parents choosing them for flexibility and modern appeal. Pera works equally well for any child, letting the person's identity shape how the name feels rather than the other way around. In greek tradition, Pera has historically been given to children of either gender. The meaning "This name derives from Latin “petra” (Petrus), from the Ancient Greek “pétrā ‎(πέτρᾱ) Pétros (Πέτρος),” from the Aramaic word “kephas,” which in turn derives from the Syriac “kefa,” all words meaning “stone, rock” (figurative meaning: reliable, stable and resolute). Saint Peter, according to ancient tradition, was a prominent early Christian leader, one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ, according to the New Testament. He is venerated as a saint and considered by the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and Oriental Orthodoxy to be the first bishop of Rome and the first Pope. Roman Catholics believe him to have been the first Pope and all subsequent popes to have been his successors, and therefore sometimes refer to the Pope or the Papacy itself as Peter." carries well for any child, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Pera?
Pera is pronounced "/ˈpɛ.rə/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Serbian (Перa), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Pera is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in croatian, serbian, slovene, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Pera can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root kefa > Kēphâs > pétrā > Pétros > Petrus influences how Pera sounds in its original language.
What are common nicknames for Pera?
Pera is commonly used as a nickname for Petar, Petra. As a diminutive of Petar, Petra, Pera started as an affectionate short form used by family and close friends. Many people named Petar, Petra go by Pera throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In greek cultures, using Pera as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among people of any gender, though some now use Pera as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Pera on the birth certificate directly, skipping the longer form entirely. This gives the child a name that feels both complete and approachable.
How popular is the name Pera?
Pera is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Pera gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Pera's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from Latin “petra” (Petrus), from the Ancient Greek “pétrā ‎(πέτρᾱ) Pétros (Πέτρος),” from the Aramaic word “kephas,” which in turn derives from the Syriac “kefa,” all words meaning “stone, rock” (figurative meaning: reliable, stable and resolute). Saint Peter, according to ancient tradition, was a prominent early Christian leader, one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ, according to the New Testament. He is venerated as a saint and considered by the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and Oriental Orthodoxy to be the first bishop of Rome and the first Pope. Roman Catholics believe him to have been the first Pope and all subsequent popes to have been his successors, and therefore sometimes refer to the Pope or the Papacy itself as Peter." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among unisex names, Pera holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Pera commonly used?
Pera is common in croatian and serbian and slovene naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Pera found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Pera, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from Latin “petra” (Petrus), from the Ancient Greek “pétrā ‎(πέτρᾱ) Pétros (Πέτρος),” from the Aramaic word “kephas,” which in turn derives from the Syriac “kefa,” all words meaning “stone, rock” (figurative meaning: reliable, stable and resolute). Saint Peter, according to ancient tradition, was a prominent early Christian leader, one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ, according to the New Testament. He is venerated as a saint and considered by the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and Oriental Orthodoxy to be the first bishop of Rome and the first Pope. Roman Catholics believe him to have been the first Pope and all subsequent popes to have been his successors, and therefore sometimes refer to the Pope or the Papacy itself as Peter." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Pera into their naming traditions. A child named Pera will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Pera is given to children of any gender, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Pera?
Pera carries associations with BIBLICAL / RELIGION (BISHOPS) / RELIGION (POPES) / RELIGION (SAINTS). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from Latin “petra” (Petrus), from the Ancient Greek “pétrā ‎(πέτρᾱ) Pétros (Πέτρος),” from the Aramaic word “kephas,” which in turn derives from the Syriac “kefa,” all words meaning “stone, rock” (figurative meaning: reliable, stable and resolute). Saint Peter, according to ancient tradition, was a prominent early Christian leader, one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ, according to the New Testament. He is venerated as a saint and considered by the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and Oriental Orthodoxy to be the first bishop of Rome and the first Pope. Roman Catholics believe him to have been the first Pope and all subsequent popes to have been his successors, and therefore sometimes refer to the Pope or the Papacy itself as Peter." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Pera originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Pera sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Pera often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In croatian communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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