per

UK: pɜː | US: pɜːr

Definition

  1. prep. for each (used in ratios, rates, or distributions)

  2. prep. by means of; through

  3. prep. according to; in accordance with

Structure

No data yet.

Etymology

The word "per" originates directly from Latin per, meaning "through," "by," or "by means of." It entered English via Old French and has retained its core prepositional function, often used in formal or technical contexts (e.g., "per annum," "per capita"). Its simplicity and versatility reflect its ancient Indo-European root per-, which conveyed notions of traversal or agency.

Examples

  1. The car was traveling at 60 miles per hour.

  2. The cost is $10 per person.

  3. Per your request, the documents have been sent.

  4. The data is organized per the new guidelines.

  5. The fee is calculated per unit of electricity consumed.