As a noun, a peer is someone who is the same age, status, or level as you, like classmates or coworkers. As a verb, it means to look closely or carefully at something, often by narrowing your eyes or leaning forward.
The noun “peer” comes from Old French *per*, meaning “equal,” from Latin *par*, “equal.” The verb “peer” has a different origin, likely from a Middle English word meaning “to look narrowly.”
Two completely different ideas—equality and squinting—share the same spelling. As a noun, a peer is someone on your level; as a verb, you’re trying to see something clearly. In both cases, there’s a kind of leveling: either between people or between your eyes and what you’re looking at.
Access to “peers” in education, science, and professional networks has often been gendered, with women and marginalized people excluded from peer groups that control opportunities and norms. “Peer review” historically reflected these imbalances in who counted as a peer.
Use “peer” in a gender-neutral way and be mindful that not everyone has equal access to peer networks. When organizing peer processes, explicitly include diverse participants rather than assuming a default group.
["colleague","equal","person at the same level"]
Women’s professional associations and peer networks have been crucial in countering exclusion from traditional male-dominated peer circles.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.