Last names can tell us a lot about a person’s background and history. Names that start with the letter “P” come from many cultures and can have interesting meanings. These names are often unique and can spark curiosity about family roots.
Today, we’ll look at some common last names that start with “P.” You’ll learn what these names mean and where they come from. Whether you’re researching your own last name or just curious about others, this list will give you a better understanding of names beginning with “P.”
Last Names That Start With P
Parker
Parker is an English surname that means ‘park keeper.’ It has gained popularity as a first name too and is a great choice for someone who appreciates nature.
Patterson
This name is of Scottish origin meaning ‘son of Patrick.’ It connects well with heritage and is ideal for families that want to honor a strong lineage.
Perry
Perry is of English origin, meaning ‘pear tree.’ This name evokes images of lush gardens and wholesome fruitfulness, making it a delightful choice.
Peters
Peters is derived from the name Peter, which means ‘rock’ or ‘stone.’ This last name reflects strength and stability, resonating with those who value resilience.
Pierce
Of English origin, Pierce means ‘rock’ or ‘stone.’ It bears a strong and bold connotation, appealing to those with a steadfast character.
Powell
This surname comes from Welsh origin and means ‘son of Howell.’ It’s a distinguished name that carries a sense of history and depth.
Phelps
Phelps is of English origin meaning ‘son of Philip.’ This name has a charming quality and connects to traditions of family and lineage.
Pope
The last name Pope has Latin roots, meaning ‘father.’ It’s an interesting name that conveys authority and respect, often associated with leadership.
Pryor
Pryor is an English surname that refers to a ‘former or previous one.’ It has a historical flair, suggesting a connection to the past.
Phoenix
The name Phoenix, though often used as a first name, evokes the image of rebirth and resilience, much like the mythical bird that rises from the ashes.
Petersen
This name is of Danish origin and means ‘son of Peter.’ It offers a delightful connection to family heritage and pride.
Pittman is an English surname meaning ‘a man who lives by the pits.’ It has an antiquated feel but remains charming in contemporary times.
Puckett
This surname is of English origin, possibly meaning ‘little pike.’ It has a playful sound that resonates with families valuing fun and joy.
Packer
Packer means ‘one who packs goods’ and has an occupational origin. It embodies the spirit of industriousness and hard work.
Pike
Pike is a name that signifies a sharp-edged weapon or can refer to someone who lives near a pike (a type of fish). It carries a certain strength and fierce energy.
Pulliam
This unique surname has its roots in French, possibly from the word ‘pull,’ connoting a sense of harmony and peacefulness.
Pavlov
Pavlov is of Russian origin and means ‘son of Pavel.’ The name is well-known for its association with the famous psychologist Ivan Pavlov, giving it intellectual weight.
Pena
Pena is a Spanish surname that means ‘rock’ or ‘cliff.’ It is often connected to strength and resilience, making it a powerful last name.
Pavone
This Italian surname translates to ‘peacock.’ It symbolizes beauty and elegance, ideal for families with artistic inclinations.
Puglisi
Puglisi is an Italian last name that signifies someone from the Puglia region. It adds a touch of regional pride and authenticity.
Parker
Parker is a lovely surname of English origin, meaning ‘keeper of the park.’ It stands for nature conservation and openness to the outdoors.
Paus
Paus is a name of German origin and means ‘a person who pauses.’ It reflects calmness and patience, perfect for serene personalities.
Petersen
This name translates to ‘son of Peter.’ Its rich history provides a connection to family ties that many find appealing.
Password
This name, while more modern, suggests the idea of security and mystery. Perfect for individuals with a tech-savvy background.
Perkins
Perkins is an English surname meaning ‘son of Perkin,’ a diminutive of Peter. This name is both warm and familial, making it relatable.
Pritchard
Pritchard is of Welsh origin and means ‘son of Richard.’ It carries a robust legacy of strength and leadership.
Pace
Pace means ‘peace’ in Latin and represents harmony and tranquility. A good name choice for those who value serenity.
Payton
The name Payton of English origin means ‘from the town by the river.’ It evokes images of nature and community.
Patterson
Patterson means ‘son of Patrick’ and comes from Scottish origin. It is a respected last name that holds familial significance.
Palmer
Palmer originates from the Latin word meaning ‘palm bearer.’ It symbolizes peace and victory, ideal for a name that seeks depth.
Perez
Of Spanish origin, Perez means ‘son of Pedro.’ It reflects heritage with a touch of warmth, perfect for family connections.
Porter
This surname denotes someone who carries goods. It reflects hard work and determination, suitable for industrious individuals.
Peters
As mentioned, Peters translates to ‘rock,’ representing stability and strength in family history.
Perkins
Perkins shows significance in the lineage, being derived from Peter. It embodies a legacy of firmness and honor.
Perino
Perino means ‘little Peter’ in Italian, suggesting a connection with familial roots and a sense of tenderness.
Powell
The name Powell signifies ‘son of Howell’ and has Welsh roots, connecting families to their cultural lineage.
Pitre
Pitre is a French surname denoting a stone or a rock. It conveys constant strength and perseverance.
Pope
The name Pope has historical connotations related to authority, embodying respect and leadership qualities.
Plummer
This English surname indicates a profession, referring to someone who works with plumbing. It has practical roots akin to industriousness.
Palacios
Palacios is of Spanish and Portuguese origin and refers to a ‘palace or mansion.’ It adds a sense of grandeur and history.
Pavan
Pavan means ‘peacock’ and symbolizes grace and beauty, appealing to artistic souls.
Pineda
Pineda is a Spanish surname that means ‘pine grove.’ It evokes natural beauty and a love for serene landscapes.
Peters
The name Peters signifies heritage, representing the lineage connected to the name Peter, carrying a strong familial bond.
Parker
Parker symbolizes nature, as it indicates the keeper of a park. It is fitting for those connected to community gardens.
Pillon
Pillon is of French origin meaning ‘a small hill or mound.’ It brings imagery of landscapes and rustic charm.
Posada
Posada translates to ‘inn’ in Spanish. It holds familial warmth and signifies hospitality.
Prieto
This surname translates to ‘dark’ or ‘black’ in Spanish. Its unique quality often relates to familial roots.
Panzarella
Panzarella is of Sicilian origin, suggesting a connection to family gatherings and warmth.
Piche
Piche has French origins. This last name is often connected with skilled trades and craftsmanship.
Patterson
Patterson means ‘son of Patrick’ and carries Irish heritage, perfect for families that value their lineage.
Piquet
Piquet is another surname of French origin, suggesting someone who is sharp and clever.
Payne
Payne, of English origin, implies one who is a steward or a worker. It’s a name full of industrious energy.
Pirro
Pirro is Italian origin, meaning ‘fiery.’ It connotes energy and passion.
Pavlik
Pavlik is a Czech surname meaning ‘little Paul.’ It exemplifies family roots and connection.
Page
The name Page signifies one who serves; it has roots in service-oriented family lines, emphasizing duty and care.
Pasley
Pasley is of Scottish origin, implying ‘a place of the pasture.’ It evokes an agricultural connection to land.
Possehl
Possehl is a surname of German origin, typically associated with trades and craftsmanship.
Persaud
This surname comes from Indian origin and translates to ‘from the forest.’ It has a mystical touch reflecting ties to nature.
Ponce
Ponce is of Spanish descent and signifies someone from a place with a fountain. It brings imagery of beauty and serenity.
Patel
This surname has Indian roots, referring to a leader or farmer. It holds a strong cultural identity.
Peters
As mentioned before, Peters signifies strength and stability, connecting families to their roots.
Pizarro
Pizarro is of Spanish origin and evokes a sense of historical significance through its connection to explorers.
Perry
Perry, of English origin, means ‘pear tree,’ drawing on natural imagery and warmth.
Ponce
Ponce means ‘one who lives near a fountain’ in Spanish. It evokes beautiful natural imagery.
Puri
Puri is of Indian origin and translates to ‘pure.’ It has a clean and spiritual connection, appealing to many.
Pascual
Pascual is of Spanish origin meaning ‘Easter.’ This name is often associated with renewal and hope.
Parsons
Parsons refers to a person who serves a church. It symbolizes duty and religious heritage.
Parker
Once again, Parker means ‘park keeper’ and resonates with those who appreciate outdoors and nature.
Poulin
Poulin is a French surname meaning ‘young or small,’ adding a sense of charm to conversations.
Pebble
Pebble signifies small stones or tiny rocks, evoking natural landscapes and tranquility.
Pope
The name Pope carries authority and respect and has historical significance rooted in leadership.
Pulido
Pulido is a Spanish last name meaning ‘polished.’ It denotes aesthetics and elegance.
Papanikolaou
This Greek surname translates to ‘son of Nicholas,’ offering a unique spin on traditional names.
Prescott
Prescott is of English origin, meaning ‘from the priest’s cottage,’ connecting the family to clergy heritage.
Pons
Pons is a surname of Spanish origin meaning ‘bridge,’ suggesting connection and unity.
Pizarro
Reiterated again, as a name of Spanish descent, it evokes historical significance and adventure.
Peyton
Peyton suggests a connection to place. It gives off a friendly, approachable vibe that can appeal to many.
Pongracz
Pongracz is a surname of Hungarian origin, representing nobility and cultural importance.
Pine
Pine signifies strength and longevity, reflecting nature and endurance.
Prettejohn
Prettejohn connects to royalty, with roots in both English and French, making it elegant.
Pascal
Pascal derives from Latin meaning ‘Easter’ or ‘born on Easter.’ It carries hope and renewal.
Palm
Palm is an English surname that relates to trees often used as symbols of victory and peace.
Pizzitola
Pizzitola is an Italian name often representing a person from a region known for its sweet desserts.
Purser
Purser signifies someone who is in charge of finances on a ship, reflecting organizational skills.
Priestley
This name implies someone who manages a priest’s duties; it reflects duty and responsibility.
Pienaar
Pienaar is a South African surname of Dutch origin; it carries historical depth and connection.
Perrin
Perrin is a French surname meaning ‘rock.’ It denotes strength and reliability.
Peschke
Peschke is of European origin and often refers to someone who lives by a pond, connecting them to nature.
Painter
Painter relates to art and creativity, representing a vibrant personality.
Poletti
Poletti is an Italian surname meaning ‘little pole,’ suggesting a warm, familial charm.
Pownall
Pownall is of English origin and represents someone living near a hill, reflecting geographical roots.
Puncheon
Puncheon signifies someone involved in carpentry, emphasizing craftsmanship.
Purcell
Purcell is an Irish surname meaning ‘the man from the rocky place,’ evoking a connection to land.
Pong
Pong refers to ‘a rice paddy’ in Chinese, suggesting a simple yet strong agricultural background.
Poblete
Poblete is of Spanish origin that indicates a connection to nature, often linked with lush valleys.
Padrón
Padrón means ‘patron’ in Spanish, signifying someone with authority and responsibility over the community.
Powell
Powell, as reiterated before, means ‘son of Howell,’ often connected to legacy in a family.
Picard
Picard is a surname of French origin meaning ‘of the Picardy region,’ connecting to geographical roots.
Pelegrin
Pelegrin is of Spanish origin meaning ‘pilgrim,’ suggesting travel and adventure.
Pipkin
Pipkin is a playful surname of English origin that often refers to someone who made tiny pots.
Paidin
Paidin means ‘young’ in Irish, reflecting youth and growth.
Pallas
Pallas is derived from Greek mythology, representing wisdom and strength.
Pollock
Pollock represents a connection to community and history, often signifying a lineage tied to land and file.
Pashley
Pashley means ‘ash tree meadow,’ creating ties to nature and tranquility.
Presley
Presley means ‘priest’s meadow,’ indicating connections to land and spirituality.
Pounder
Pounder often refers to one who pounds grain, highlighting strength and industriousness.
Périgo
Périgo is of Basque origin suggesting a connection to earthy regions.
Pratt
Pratt is an English surname meaning ‘a trickster or cunning person,’ often reflecting cleverness.
Paladino
Paladino is of Italian origin meaning ‘paladin,’ indicating one who is a knight or champion.
Pataichin
Pataichin is a unique surname with cultural significance, often tied to local heritage.
Pandey
Pandey signifies a strong connection to Indian roots, often linked with respect and learning.
Pennington
This surname refers to ‘the settlement of peaks,’ adding an adventurous twist to family history.
Petras
Petras is derived from Peter, meaning ‘rock’ and signifies strength in family history.
Pendergrass
Pendergrass represents a picturesque name usually related to rural lifestyles and simplicity.
Pivovar
Pivovar, of Czech origin, means ‘brewer’ and is connected to artisanal practices.
Parks
Parks denotes ‘someone who lives by a park,’ highlighting connections to nature.
Phan
Phan is of Vietnamese origin meaning ‘to shine,’ indicating brilliance and positivity.
Philips
Philips means ‘son of Philip’ and often connotes stability and security.
Pedroza
Spanish origin, meaning ‘stone,’ linking to strength and endurance in history.
Pugh
Pugh is of Welsh origin and signifies ‘small’ or ‘little,’ exuding charm.
Pulgar
Pulgar means ‘small bird’ in Spanish, connecting families to nature’s beauty.
Patil
Patil means ‘headman or village chief’ in Marathi, representing leadership.
Poisot
Poisot is of French origin; it signifies a flavorful spice, suggesting warmth and openness.
Pierre
Pierre, the French version of Peter, means ‘rock,’ embodying strength and reliability.
Pace-walker
Pace-walker symbolizes patience and perseverance on life’s journey.
Perry
Perry evokes pastoral imagery, referring to tranquil countryside filled with fruit trees.
Panna
Panna is of Indian origin meaning ‘emerald,’ suggesting value and preciousness in family ties.
Pearson
Pearson means ‘son of Peter’ and carries a sense of belonging to lineage.
Pinter
Pinter refers to someone who deals with pins or needlework, highlighting craftsmanship.
Pontares
Pontares is of Spanish origin, meaning ‘bridge maker,’ symbolizing connections.
Parker
Parker symbolizes someone who oversees a park, linking to nature and nurturing.
Palmer
Palmer symbolizes peace through palm branches, representing harmony.
Paschke
Of German origin, meaning ‘Easter,’ symbolizes light and renewal.
Porthous
Porthous often refers to a natural harbor, highlighting connections to maritime heritage.
Pavlari
Pavlari hints at connections to rich history, signifying permanence.
Pacas
Pacas translates to ‘young’ in Spanish, suggesting warmth and youthfulness.
Paz
Paz means ‘peace’ in Spanish, connecting to calm spirits and relations.
Pardue
Pardue signifies ‘to prepare,’ reflecting readiness and organization.
Pfeiffer
Pfeiffer means ‘tapper’ and connects to artisanal skills.
Pianist
Pianist reflects ties to music and creativity, appealing to artistic natures.
Pannell
Pannell signifies ‘one who makes panels,’ linking to skilled craftsmanship.
Pipe
Pipe symbolizes connection and communication, evoking sincere interactions.
Pughsley
Pughsley implies peaceful retreat, suggesting tranquility and simplicity.
Pipkin
Pipkin means ‘little pot maker,’ adding an artisanal touch to craftsmanship.
Palmo
Palmo symbolizes palms in nature, connecting to warmth and nurturing qualities.
Potter
Potter reflects artistic skills in claywork, resonating creativity.
Patterson
Reiterated here, Patterson signifies ‘son of Patrick,’ connecting to strong familial ties.
Pomeroy
Pomeroy means ‘from the region of apples,’ connecting families with nature.
Pardini
Pardini is an Italian surname often reflecting kindness and love for family.
Pires
Pires indicates ‘son of Pierre,’ linking strength with historical importance.
Ponzio
Ponzio reflects rich cultural roots, giving a unique twist on modernity.
Palladino
Palladino connects to heritage as a ‘guardian,’ highlighting roles as protectors in history.
Poulter
Poulter signifies one who sells poultry, embodying agrarian roots essential in society.
Pritchett
Pritchett suggests connection to nobility, linking families to pride in heritage.
Platt
Platt means ‘flat or smooth ground,’ connecting families to nature.
Phipps
Phipps connotes prestige and status, enhancing family pride.
Peiffer
Peiffer indicates a lineage of artistic craftsmanship and skilled trades.
Provost
Provost means ‘chief officer’ in French, linking leadership to family heritage.
Preston
Preston signifies ‘town of priests,’ enhancing familial bond with history.
Patteron
Patteron connects to attachment and energy, showcasing positive family roots.
Pgarcia
Pgarcia translates to ‘son of Garcia,’ connecting cultural heritage with pride.
PVietnam
PVietnam connects individuals with cultural roots and historical significance.
Pochard
Pochard is a French origin name symbolizing swans, connecting with symbolism.
Perry
Perry has been revisited quite a few times, reflecting jovial imagery.
Phelps
Phelps connects to pride in craft and industry, significant for familial relics.
Final Thoughts
This exploration of last names beginning with P shows the diversity and richness behind each name. From names signifying strength like Parker and Pritchard to softer names like Phelps and Piper, each surname tells a different story. Their roots can span generations, connecting us with our history and heritage.
Understanding the meanings behind these names can deepen our appreciation for not just our own surnames, but those around us as well. Many of the names listed provide a connection to family, nature, and even artistry, showcasing the multifaceted aspects of identity.
If you’re curious to explore surnames that mean something specific, take a look at names that represent light or their meanings. Delving into these connections can create a profound sense of wonder regarding your own roots and those you encounter.