1
: by the means or agency of : through
per bearer
2
: with respect to every member of a specified group : for each
3
: according to
—often used with as
per instructions
as per usual
Using Per as a Preposition: Usage Guide
Per occurs most frequently in business contexts; its use outside such contexts is often criticized but is quite widespread, especially in sense 2. Its most common and natural nonbusiness uses always involve figures, usually in relation to price
$150 per performance
, automobiles
32 miles per gallon
55 miles per hour
, or sports.
averages 15 points and 9 rebounds per game
1
period
2
person
1
: throughout : thoroughly
peruse
2
a
: containing the largest possible or a relatively large proportion of a (specified) chemical element
perchloroethylene
b
: containing an element in its highest or a high oxidation state
perchloric acid
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share