1. Behind the Name: According to the website Behind the Name, which compiles data on personal names, "Peter" ranks as the 20th most popular male name worldwide. This estimate is based on data collected from various sources and is not an official count.
2. Name Census: The Name Census, a project that analyzed over 10 billion name records, estimated that "Peter" was the 23rd most common male first name in the world. Their database includes names from various countries and cultures, but it may not represent all regions equally.
3. Popular Names by Country: While global rankings provide a general idea, the popularity of names can vary significantly from country to country. For instance, Peter is a common name in many English-speaking countries, but its popularity may differ in non-English speaking regions.
4. National Statistics: National statistical agencies or population databases may provide more accurate estimates for the prevalence of "Peter" in specific countries. However, these statistics are typically available for citizens or residents of the respective countries and may not include individuals living in other regions.
5. Demographic Studies: Demographic studies or household surveys conducted in different countries may shed light on the prevalence of names, including "Peter." These studies often collect data on the distribution of first names within a given population.
6. Cultural and Linguistic Variation: The name "Peter" is a common name in English, but its equivalents in other languages may have different popularity rankings. Factors such as cultural traditions, religious influences, and historical trends can affect the prevalence of personal names in different regions.
In summary, the number of people named Peter worldwide is difficult to pinpoint, but it is likely to be quite high given the popularity of the name in many countries and cultures. However, the specific number varies regionally, and exact statistics are not readily available on a global scale.