peta-

1. a combining form used in the names of units of measure equal to one quadrillion (10 15 ) of a given base unit:

   petabyte.

peta-

¹

prefix

1. denoting 10 ¹⁵ P

   petametres

Peta

²

abbreviation for

1. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals

peta–

1. A prefix that means:
2. One quadrillion (10 ¹⁵), as in petahertz, one quadrillion hertz.
3. 2 ⁵⁰ (that is, 1,125,899,906,842,624), which is the power of two closest to a quadrillion, as in petabyte.

Word History and Origins

Origin of peta-¹

Origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of peta-¹

C20: so named because it is the SI prefix after tera- ; on the model of penta- , the prefix after tetra-

Example Sentences

You may be forgiven for reading that sign and assuming that PETA suggests milk causes autism.

From The Daily Beast

He tells me about the absurdity of the ASPCA, the Humane Society of the United States, and PETA.

From The Daily Beast

As recently reported by The Daily Beast, PETA has launched a campaign that tries to link milk consumption and autism.

From The Daily Beast

It seems that PETA was unhappy to have had its revamped campaign debunked.

From The Daily Beast

PETA, whose headquarters are based in Detroit, is encouraging people to donate their goods.

From The Daily Beast

The golden-hued peta was found beside the myriad-flowering oleander, while the undergrowth was braided with cacti and aloes.

From Project Gutenberg

Simon Peta was de first bishop of Rome, but de Lord had on old worn-out clothes, and was sot upon an oxen, and eat moldy bread.

From Project Gutenberg

Now two men lived at Avikwame, Hatpa-'aqwaoθtše, their father's older brother, and Nume-peta.

From Project Gutenberg

Then Pukehane sent for people to come for his brother who was about to die; he sent for Nume-peta at Avikwame.

From Project Gutenberg

A son of Peta-la-sha-ra and head chief of the Chowee band; also a leader in the councils.

From Project Gutenberg