peer group

American  

noun

1. a group of people, usually of similar age, background, and social status, with whom a person associates and who are likely to influence the person's beliefs and behavior.

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peer group British  

noun

1. a social group composed of individuals of approximately the same age

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peer group Cultural  

1. A group of people who share certain social characteristics, such as age, class, occupation, or education, and interact on a level of equality. An individual may be a member of several peer groups, including friends, schoolmates, and coworkers. Peer groups are important in socialization, as individuals attempt to conform to the expectations of their peer groups. (See conformity and peer pressure.)

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Etymology

Origin of peer group

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

For middle school and high school students, the department offers enrichment camps, peer groups and support programs, which provide academic and social-emotional support.

From Los Angeles Times

"It was quite emotional because this was my peer group I was looking after and seeing," said the now 66-year-old.

From BBC

“The position in the peer group is really important,” Odenbring says.

From Washington Post

In stocks, I’m looking to see if the investment meets my growth/dividend expectations, and performs admirably relative to its peer group.

From Seattle Times

Its students’ performance has generally exceeded that of other peer groups, and the project has won national awards and the praise of numerous academics.

From Washington Post