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Origin and meaning of the name Peregrine

What is the origin of the name Peregrine?

The origin of the given name "Peregrine" is Latin. It comes from the word "peregrinus," which means foreigner or traveler. The name has been traditionally associated with St. Peregrine Laziosi, a 14th-century Italian lay brother who was known for his healing miracles and travels. In English-speaking countries, the name Peregrine is often used as a given name, particularly for boys, and it has connotations of adventure and exploration due to its connection with travelers.

Learn more about the origin of the name Peregrine

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Peregrine

The name Peregrine derives from the Latin word "peregrinus," which means 'stranger' or 'traveler.' This name was often given to individuals who were born out of wedlock, as it literally translates to 'pilgrim child,' implying that the mother had been on a journey or pilgrimage at the time of birth. However, Peregrine also has bird-related connotations due to its association with the Peregrine Falcon, one of the fastest birds in the world. The falcon's migratory nature may have further contributed to the name's meaning as a traveler or wanderer. In modern times, Peregrine is primarily used as a given name and can be found throughout various English-speaking countries.

Character traits associated with the name Peregrine

Peregrine is often associated with adventurous and independent personality traits. Named after the Peregrine Falcon, known for its migratory habits, individuals named Peregrine are thought to possess a strong sense of wanderlust and exploration. They tend to be bold, daring, and fearless, much like the bird that shares their name. Peregrines have an innate curiosity and desire to discover new things, leading them to embark on various journeys both physically and intellectually. They are also known for their adaptability, as they can thrive in various environments, mirroring the versatility of the Peregrine Falcon. However, this adventurous spirit may sometimes lead to impulsive decisions, requiring a balance between caution and courage. Overall, individuals named Peregrine are seen as free-spirited, intrepid, and resilient explorers, much like their namesake bird.

Popularity of the name Peregrine

Peregrine, derived from the Latin word "peregrinus," meaning stranger or traveler, is a distinct and unusual given name of Old English origin. Although not commonly used as a first name, Peregrine carries an air of rarity and nobility due to its historical association with the Falconer family in England. The name gained further prominence through various literary figures such as Saint Peregrine Laziosi, a 14th-century Italian lay brother and patron saint of cancer patients, and Edward Lear's character, the Owl and the Pussycat's Peregrine Falcon. Despite its unique appeal, Peregrine remains a relatively uncommon name in modern times, with only a few hundred instances registered per year in the United States.

Famous people with the name Peregrine

Peregrine Falcon is not a person but a bird species known for its incredible speed, making it the fastest member of the animal kingdom. Among humans, Peregrine Falcons have been named as tributes in popular culture. For instance, Peregrine Worsthorne (1923-2020), a British journalist and editor, was influential in shaping political debate in the United Kingdom. Another notable figure is Peregrine Ellis Williams (1857-1944), an Australian painter known for his landscapes and portraits that captured the spirit of colonial Australia. In literature, Peregrine Pickford, a character from George MacDonald's "At The Back Of The North Wind," is a young boy who embarks on an adventure with a supernatural snow maiden. Lastly, Peregrine Fitzgerald (1916-2013), a British author and traveler, wrote extensively about his journeys and experiences around the world. These individuals have contributed significantly in their respective fields, reflecting the adventurous spirit associated with the name Peregrine.

Variations of the name Peregrine

Peregrine is primarily a masculine given name of Latin origin, derived from the word "peregrinus," meaning "foreigner" or "traveler." The name is commonly associated with birds of prey, specifically falcons, due to their migratory nature. Here are some variations and forms of the name Peregrine:

1. Percival: This is an Old French variant of Peregrine. It was also the name of one of King Arthur's knights in medieval literature.
2. Peggy: A diminutive form of Peregrine, more commonly used for females.
3. Percy: This is a shortened form of Peregrine and has been popular as a given name since the Middle Ages.
4. Perry: Another shortened version of Peregrine, often used as a surname in English-speaking countries.
5. Percivale: A variant of Percival, used primarily in Wales.
6. Perkins: Originally a surname derived from Peregrinus, it has also been used as a given name.
7. Pego/Peggie: Pet forms of Peggy or Peregrine, used mostly in Scotland and Ireland.
8. Percivalito/Periquito: Spanish diminutive forms of Percival.
9. Perikles: The Greek equivalent of Peregrine, meaning "famous for glory."
10. Peregrinus Junior: A formal variant indicating the son of a Peregrinus.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 29 July 2025

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