I. ˈpər preposition
Etymology: Latin, through, by means of, by — more at for
Date: 14th century
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
Usage:
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
II. adverb
Date: 1899
: for each : apiece
a bargain at $3.50 per
III. abbreviation
1. period
2. person