Peregrin

Meaning & origin

Peregrin, derived from the Latin peregrinus meaning 'traveler' or 'pilgrim,' has a long but sporadic history in English-speaking countries. First recorded in the U.S. in 2011, it has slowly risen in usage, especially since 2017, and reached its peak rank of 6,446 in 2024. With a one-in-131,390 occurrence rate among male newborns in 2025, Peregrin remains a rare choice. Its literary connection to the hobbit Peregrin Took from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings has likely contributed to its modest but growing appeal, particularly in the 2020s. Although not yet recorded in any U.S. state data, its gentle sound and adventurous meaning may attract parents looking for an uncommon name with historical depth.

Peregrin derives from the Latin peregrinus, meaning 'traveler' or 'pilgrim.' It entered English through the medieval name Peregrine, used by the Puritans in the 17th century and later associated with the peregrine falcon, a species named for its wandering habits. In modern times, the name has seen occasional use, often inspired by the character Peregrin Took from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings.