Petrus

Origin

Latin origin, from 'Petrus' meaning 'rock' or 'stone'. The name was popularised through Christian tradition as the name of Saint Peter, one of the apostles. In ancient texts, it appears as 'Petros' in Greek, Latinized as 'Petrus'. No specific Aboriginal or Māori roots are associated with this name.

Meaning

Literal translation is 'rock' or 'stone'. In Australian English contexts, it connotes strength, stability, and steadfastness, often used metaphorically to refer to a dependable person.

Pronunciation

/ˈpɛtrəs/ (AU pronunciation: PET-rous, with emphasis on the first syllable) ,"with a short 'e' as in 'pet' and a schwa sound in the second syllable" ,

Variants & Nicknames

Name Days

• 29 June (Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, celebrated in Catholic and Anglican churches in Australia)
• 29 June (Orthodox tradition acknowledgement)
• 24 February (Māori celebration of Matariki, marking the Maori New Year, with some cultural references to 'stone' symbolism in traditional crafts)

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with petrus:

• James and Elizabeth
• John and Mary Louisa
• Thomas and Sarah
• George and Charlotte

Fun Facts

• 'Petrus' has been used as a surname in Australia, especially among descendants of European settlers.
• The name is associated with several notable Australian figures in religion, sport, and arts, often bearing connotations of strength and resilience.
• In Australian popular culture, 'Petrus' is also the name of a well-known champagne brand, though unrelated to the personal name.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name petrus:

• reliable
• steadfast
• strong-willed
• resilient

Aesthetic Qualities

Classic and timeless, visually sturdy with simple, balanced letterforms fitting the Australian appreciation for straightforward, enduring names in typography.

Geographical Distribution

More common among families with European descent, particularly with Irish, Italian, Greek, and Eastern European backgrounds, but used broadly across all regions of Australia.

Numerological Significance

Number 3 in numerology, associated with creativity, communication, and sociability, reflecting a lively personality when the name is chosen with this in mind.

Astrological Connections

Strong connections to the zodiac signs Taurus and Scorpio, indicative of stability, strength, and resilience — qualities culturally valued in Australia.

Historical Context

The name gained historical prominence through Saint Peter, considered the first Pope by the Catholic Church. It became a popular Christian name throughout Europe and subsequently in Australia, especially among Irish and Italian immigrants, reflecting religious heritage.

Linguistic Adaptability

The name adapts straightforwardly across European languages with variations like Petros, Pierre, Pedro, and Peter, fitting well within multicultural Australian contexts.

Famous People Named petrus

• Peter Garrett (Musician, Politician)
• Peter MacGregor (Artist)
• Petrus (19th-century Australian missionary and explorer)

Popularity in Australia