Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A disciple of Jesus and leader of the Apostles; regarded by Catholics as the vicar of Christ on earth and first Pope: "Saint Peter" refers to a key figure in early Christianity, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. He is traditionally considered the first bishop of Rome and, therefore, the first Pope by the Catholic Church.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The basilica is dedicated to Saint Peter. (The church building is named in honor of the apostle Peter.)
  • According to tradition, Saint Peter was martyred in Rome. (Historical Christian tradition states that Peter died as a martyr in Rome.)

Advanced Usage

• "The keys of Saint Peter": a symbol of papal authority, often depicted in art.

  • In the painting, Christ is shown handing the keys of Saint Peter to the apostle. (The artwork depicts the biblical scene of Jesus giving symbolic authority to Peter.)

• "To appeal to Saint Peter": a figurative phrase meaning to die or to reach the gates of heaven.

  • After a long life, the old man finally appealed to Saint Peter. (This is a euphemistic way of saying the man died.)

Variants and Related Words

• Peter (proper noun): The common name for Saint Peter, used in biblical and historical contexts.

  • Jesus said to Peter, "You are the rock upon which I will build my church."

• Petrine (adjective): Relating to Saint Peter or his teachings and authority.

  • The doctrine of Petrine succession is central to the Catholic Church.

• The Papacy (noun): The office or authority of the Pope, whose lineage is traced back to Saint Peter.

  • The history of the papacy begins with Saint Peter.

Synonyms

• Simon Peter: His original name, Simon, given with his apostolic name.
• The Apostle Peter: Emphasizing his role as one of the twelve apostles.
• The First Pope: Specifically within Catholic tradition.

Related Phrases

• Saint Peter's Basilica: The famous church in Vatican City, built over the traditional site of his tomb.

  • Millions of pilgrims visit Saint Peter's Basilica every year.

• The Chair of Saint Peter: A term for the authority of the Pope and a physical throne in St. Peter's Basilica.

  • The feast of the Chair of Saint Peter is celebrated in February.

Related Idioms

• "To rob Peter to pay Paul": An idiom meaning to take from one thing to give to another, often solving one problem by creating another. (Note: This idiom's origin is debated and not directly about the saint, but it commonly uses the names).
  • Using rent money to pay your credit card bill is just robbing Peter to pay Paul.

Noun

1. disciple of Jesus and leader of the Apostles; regarded by Catholics as the vicar of Christ on earth and first Pope