peer

¹ American  

[peer] / pɪər /

verb (used without object)

1. to look narrowly or searchingly, as in the effort to discern clearly.

2. to peep out or appear slightly.

3. to come into view.

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peer ² American  

[peer] / pɪər /

noun

1. a person of the same legal status.

   a jury of one's peers.

2. a person who is equal to another in abilities, qualifications, age, background, and social status.

3. something of equal worth or quality.

   a skyscraper without peer.

4. a nobleman.

5. a member of any of the five degrees of the nobility in Great Britain and Ireland (duke, marquis, earl, viscount, and baron).

6. Computers.

   1. a network connected to one or more other networks in a way that routes traffic independently between them in a direct exchange of data.

   2. a computer or device that is connected to others in a network, either directly or through a server.

7. Archaic. a companion.

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verb (used without object)

1. Computers. (of a network) to be connected with one or more other networks in a way that routes traffic independently between them in a direct exchange of data (usually followed bywith ).

peer ¹ British  

/ pɪə /

noun

1. a member of a nobility; nobleman

2. a person who holds any of the five grades of the British nobility: duke, marquess, earl, viscount, and baron See also life peer

3. 1. a person who is an equal in social standing, rank, age, etc

   2. ( as modifier )

      peer pressure

4. archaic a companion; mate

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peer ² British  

/ pɪə /

verb

1. to look intently with or as if with difficulty

   to peer into the distance

2. to appear partially or dimly

   the sun peered through the fog

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Related Words

See peep ¹.

Etymology

Origin of peer¹

First recorded in 1560–70; perhaps a variant of appear

Origin of peer²

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English per, from Old French per, from Latin pār “equal, an equal, partner”

Example Sentences

The other evaluates applicants using a comprehensive review process — including special talents, how a student compares with peers in their high school, and geographic location — in addition to grades and coursework.

From Los Angeles Times

Fortunately, there are secular public voices that are speaking this moral language who should serve as examples for their peers.

From Salon

NIO, like many other of its Chinese automakers peers, has been expanding aggressively overseas as demand in the local market slows.

From The Wall Street Journal

Lower-income Americans also tend to spend a larger share of their income on fuel than their wealthier peers, so spending less on gas means they can spend more on everything else, boosting growth.

From The Wall Street Journal

"This face-to-face contact not only allows them to celebrate with peers and teachers, but also to receive any advice or support they may require regarding next steps."

From BBC

Related Words

• gape
• gawk
• give the eagle eye
• glare
• peep
• snoop
• squint
• stare