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

A Ford spokesman said Farley’s pay reflects overall results, adding that the company’s total return, including dividends, of 42% beat the market and its automaker peer group, while Ford had record revenue.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

"For an adult, waiting is annoying, painful and difficult. But for a child, waiting means your peer group moves on while you don't. You fall behind and never catch up."

From BBC • Jan. 25, 2026

The U.S. is as the high end of the peer group, the Vaccine Integrity Project said.

From Barron's • Jan. 5, 2026

The enthusiasm from this peer group gave the smart ring credibility, and she recommended it to her friends.

From Slate • Oct. 2, 2025

When you’re giving evidence in court, you’re unlikely to address the judge with “yaknowwhamean?”; and conversely the language you use in court would cause your peer group back on the street to fall about laughing.

From "Words Like Loaded Pistols" by Sam Leith