Pelle is a Swedish diminutive of Per, which itself is a Scandinavian form of Peter. The name thus traces its origins to the Greek Πέτρος (Petros), meaning "stone" — a translation of the Aramaic name Cephas bestowed upon the apostle Simon by Jesus (see Matthew 16:18 and John 1:42). In Sweden, Pelle functions as a casual, friendly short form of Per — similar to how "Per" might be used affectionately. The name has been moderately popular in Scandinavia and the Netherlands, where it ranked 351st in 2015. Outside of Scandinavia, it is often associated with the punch cartoon character Pelle, or with Swedish musicians like Howlin' Pelle Almqvist of The Hives. Notable Bearers Several Swedish men have carried the name into public recognition: Pelle Larsson (born 2001), a Swedish professional basketball player. Pelle Strindlund (born 1971), an author and advocate for animal rights. Howlin' Pelle Almqvist (born 1978), lead singer of the rock band The Hives. Pelle Ohlin (born 1969), stage name "Dead," the deceased vocalist of the black-metal band Mayhem. Meaning: Diminutive of Per (Peter), derived from Greek "stone" Origin: Swedish diminutive Type: First name, masculine Usage regions: Sweden, Scandinavia, occasionally Netherlands