The Name Matthew: Origin, Meaning, and Popularity

Matthew is a classic and enduring name with a rich history and deep spiritual significance. Derived from the Hebrew name "Mattityahu," meaning "gift of God," this name has been a steadfast favorite for generations of parents seeking a strong, dignified choice for their baby boy.

Origin and Meaning

The name Matthew has its roots in the ancient Hebrew language, where it was originally written as "Mattityahu." This name is a compound of two Hebrew elements: "mattath," meaning "gift," and "Yah," a shortened form of the divine name Yahweh. Together, the name Matthew translates to "gift of God" or "gift from God," reflecting the Biblical importance of this moniker.

Over time, the name evolved from its Hebrew origins to the Greek form "Matthaios" and finally to the English variant "Matthew." This timeless name has remained popular throughout the centuries, maintaining its significance as a beloved choice for parents seeking a strong, spiritual name for their son.

Popularity and Trends

Matthew has consistently ranked as one of the most popular male names in the United States. In 2022, it was the 39th most popular name, with 113,625 babies given this name. This represents a slight decline from its peak popularity in the 1990s and early 2000s, when it was a top 10 name. However, Matthew remains a classic choice that continues to resonate with parents seeking a well-established, recognizable name for their child.

Notable Name Bearers

Matthew is a name with a long and distinguished history, shared by numerous notable figures throughout the ages. Some of the most famous bearers of this name include:

• Saint Matthew, one of the Twelve Apostles and the author of the first Gospel in the New Testament
• Matthew Broderick, the acclaimed American actor known for his roles in films such as "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and "The Lion King"
• Matthew McConaughey, the Oscar-winning American actor known for his roles in movies like "Dallas Buyers Club" and "Interstellar"
• Matthew Shepard, the American student whose tragic death in 1998 sparked a national conversation about LGBTQ+ rights and hate crimes

Name Style and Associations

Matthew is considered a classic, traditional name that has stood the test of time. It is a name that is often favored by parents seeking a strong, dignified, and timeless option for their son. Matthew is commonly associated with qualities such as reliability, intelligence, and a strong moral compass.

This name is well-suited for a wide range of middle and last name combinations, flowing seamlessly with both traditional and modern surnames. Parents drawn to Matthew may also appreciate its spiritual and Biblical connotations, as well as its association with notable figures throughout history.

Positive Traits and Attributes

The name Matthew is often linked to positive qualities such as:

• Reliability and dependability
• Intelligence and academic excellence
• Compassion and kindness
• Spiritual awareness and moral fortitude
• Leadership and confidence

These attributes make Matthew a name that is widely respected and admired, making it a popular choice for parents seeking a name that will instill their son with these desirable traits.

Sibling Name Ideas

If you're considering the name Matthew for your son, here are some complementary sibling name ideas that share similar style, origin, or meaning:

• Benjamin (Hebrew, meaning "son of the right hand")
• Daniel (Hebrew, meaning "God is my judge")
• Samuel (Hebrew, meaning "name of God")
• Jacob (Hebrew, meaning "supplanter")
• Noah (Hebrew, meaning "rest" or "comfort")

These names all have a classic, timeless quality that would pair well with the enduring appeal of Matthew.