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
per instructions
—often used with asas 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
Cite this Entry
“Per.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/per. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.
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