Petra is a feminine given name of Greek origin, derived from the word "petros," which means "rock" or "stone." The name has been popular in various cultures throughout history and has been used by several notable figures.
In ancient Greece, Petra was the wife of the legendary fisherman Saint Andrew. According to Christian tradition, she was a tireless worker who earned her living by fishing and mending nets alongside her husband. After Saint Andrew's martyrdom, Petra is said to have continued his ministry, eventually being martyred herself in Patras around 70 AD. She is revered as a saint in the Eastern Orthodox Church, with her feast day celebrated on July 26th.
The name Petra has also been used in other historical contexts. In the Middle Ages, it was borne by several queens and noblewomen across Europe, including Queen Petra of Hungary (1046-1047) and Queen Petra of Aragon (1338-1387). In more recent times, Petra Kelly (1947-1992) was a prominent German Green Party politician and peace activist who played a crucial role in the anti-nuclear movement during the Cold War era.
In literature, Petra has been used as a character name in various works. One notable example is "The Phantom of the Opera," where the character Carlotta Giudicelli's real name is revealed to be Petra. Additionally, the name appears in several works by Russian author Fyodor Dostoevsky, including "Crime and Punishment" and "Demons."
Today, Petra continues to be used as a given name for girls, with its popularity varying depending on the region and culture. Its enduring appeal may be attributed to its strong and unique sound, as well as its historical significance and association with notable figures throughout history.
In conclusion, Petra is a feminine given name of Greek origin that means "rock" or "stone." Throughout history, it has been borne by various significant figures, including saints, queens, and political activists. Its popularity in literature further contributes to its enduring appeal as a name for girls today.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Petra has been given to a total of 67 babies in the United States over the years. The earliest recorded birth was in 1918 with 5 babies named Petra. The name's popularity fluctuated throughout the decades, with periods of increased usage followed by periods of decreased usage.
In the 1920s and early 1930s, there were several years where more than 5 girls were named Petra each year. The highest number of Petra births during this period was in 1927, with a total of 8 babies given the name.
After a gap of nearly four decades, the name Petra resurfaced in the United States in 1973, with another 5 babies being named Petra that year. This trend continued into the late 20th century, with 5 more Petra births recorded in 1991.
Overall, while Petra may not be one of the most popular names in the United States, it has been consistently used throughout the decades, with a small but steady number of parents choosing this name for their daughters.