Peter in Chinese
Origin: Greek
Meaning: rock, stone
The standard Chinese transliteration of Peter, pronounced Bǐ Dé. The characters are chosen for sound: 彼 (bǐ, "that (phonetic 'pe')"), 得 (dé, "to obtain (phonetic 'ter')"). Native speakers will immediately recognize it as the name Peter.
Character Breakdown
Note: Reads as the name "Peter" to native speakers; the characters are chosen for sound, so don't expect a poetic meaning. Use a proper calligraphy font and have a native speaker check the final stencil (stroke order and orientation).
A Chinese-style given name inspired by the meaning of Peter ("rock, stone"), expressing precious stones and steadfastness: 瑾 (jǐn, "fine jade") + 瑜 (yú, "fine jade; excellence").
Character Breakdown
Note: A meaning-based Chinese given name; it will not sound like your English name, so pair it with an explanation if that matters to you. Use a proper calligraphy font and have a native speaker check the final stencil (stroke order and orientation).
Opens with 彬 (bīn, "refined, elegant"), which echoes the first sound of Peter (Bǐ), and adds 成 (chéng, "to accomplish, succeed") for precious stones and steadfastness. It reads like a natural Chinese given name with a nod to your English one.
Character Breakdown
Note: Looks and sounds like a genuine Chinese given name while still echoing your name; a popular choice for tattoos. Use a proper calligraphy font and have a native speaker check the final stencil (stroke order and orientation).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you write Peter in Chinese?
The most common way is 彼得 (traditional: 彼得), pronounced Bǐ Dé. This is the standard phonetic transliteration you would see in Chinese media and translations.
What does 彼得 mean?
彼得 is a sound-based transliteration, so as a whole it simply means "Peter". Individually: 彼 (bǐ) = that (phonetic 'pe'); 得 (dé) = to obtain (phonetic 'ter'). If you want real meaning, try 瑾瑜 (Jǐn Yú), inspired by the meaning of Peter: "rock, stone".
Which Chinese name for Peter is best for a tattoo?
Choose 彼得 if you want people to recognize your name, 瑾瑜 if you prefer meaning over sound, or 彬成 for a natural-sounding Chinese name that still echoes Peter. Whatever you pick, use a calligraphy font and ask a native speaker to check the final design.