in the saying "for pete's sake" who or what is pete ?

Answer 1

It is probably a reference to St Peter, with the diminutive form of the name 'Pete'. There is also the "for the love of Pete" version. Both are most likely used as a sort of euphemism for "for God's sake" and "For the love of God".

Answer 2

I think it is refering to St. Peter. People would not say for God sake considering that to be taking the Lord's name in vain, St. Peter is first among saints and not born divine so it there is nothing against calling his name. From " For the sake of St Peter" to "for Pete's sake" not a hard leap.

Answer 3

One theorey is of St Peter the apostle who wanted to save Jesus when he was being arrested and the other relates to the ancient and ceremonial drinking of sake in Peter Stringfellows nightclub thet must be drunk by groups of 4 people only, hence the order "4 petes sake's"

Answer 4

Saint Peter

Answer 5

A variant on "for goodness sake" or "for heaven's sake" or pity's sake. An exclamation showing surprise, impatience, anger, or some other emotion, depending on the context. For example, For Pete's sake, I didn't expect to see you here, or Hurry up, for goodness sake, or For heaven's sake, how can you say such a mean thing? or For pity's sake, finish your dinner. The variants are euphemisms for God.

Answer 6

pete is a name thus hes a person

Answer 7

Pete Doherty maybe he he

Answer 8

The apostle Peter, most likely.

Answer 9

Romans said ‘for Jupiter’s sake’ – a very strong appeal! So we still say it forgetting who were Romans and who was that Jupiter.

Answer 10

St. Peter, presumably.