The Name and Its Meaning
The name “Matthew” is derived from the Hebrew name “Mattityahu,” which translates to “gift of God.” This name holds a deep significance for many, representing not only a personal identity but a sense of purpose and blessing. Its Greek version, “Matthaeus,” similarly carries the meaning of divine favor.
According to Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary, Matthew is defined as “the name of one of the twelve apostles of Jesus, traditionally regarded as the author of the first Gospel.” Other dictionary sources describe Matthew as a masculine given name that signifies a person’s connection to faith and community. Wiktionary emphasizes the biblical association of the name and its long-standing popularity throughout history.
History of the Name and Gender Association
The name Matthew has a rich historical background. It has been used since the Middle Ages and has been predominantly assigned to males across many cultures and countries. In Christian traditions, Matthew is particularly revered for being one of Jesus’ apostles and is known for his role as a tax collector turned follower of Christ. Throughout history, Matthew has appeared in various forms and adaptations—showcasing its durability and adaptability in diverse cultures.
15 Fun Facts About the Name
1. Matthew is one of the most popular Biblical names worldwide.
2. In the New Testament, Matthew is also known as Levi.
3. The name is celebrated on September 21 in the Christian calendar.
4. Famous bearers include the actor Matthew McConaughey and musician Matthew Bellamy.
5. The name has been consistently popular since the 1940s in the U.S.
6. The number 8 is considered lucky for those named Matthew.
7. “Matthew” was one of the top ten names for boys for several decades.
8. Many nicknames exist for Matthew, including Matt and Matthews.
9. Matthew is a common name in various languages, such as “Matteo” in Italian.
10. One popular children’s song is “Matty, Matty, Pattty,” celebrating the name.
11. Matthew has been used as a name for numerous songs and films.
12. The popularity of the name fluctuates seasonally, often peaking in rankings during the spring months.
13. Matthew is often associated with characteristics like reliability and kindness.
14. The name has multiple spellings such as Matthieu and Matias in other languages.
15. There are several famous fictional characters named Matthew, making it a cultural staple.
What Name Lists Does Matthew Rank For?
Overall: Matthew is currently #13 in U.S. births.
Boy: Matthew is currently #8 in U.S. births.
Girl: Matthew is currently not ranked among girls in U.S. births.
10 Notable Persons Named Matthew
1. **Matthew McConaughey**: An acclaimed American actor known for his roles in films such as “Dallas Buyers Club” and “Interstellar.” He’s also a producer and author, winning an Academy Award for Best Actor.
2. **Matthew Perry**: An American actor, best known for his role as Chandler Bing on the hit TV show “Friends.” Perry has also appeared in various films and is an advocate for addiction recovery.
3. **Matthew Broderick**: An American actor renowned for his performances in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” and “The Producers.” He has won Tony Awards for his stage performances.
4. **Matthew Fox**: An American actor famous for his leading role as Jack Shephard in the hit series “Lost.” He has also starred in several films, demonstrating his versatility.
5. **Matthew Daddario**: A rising star known for his role in “Shadowhunters.” He has earned recognition for his charming presence in various TV shows and films.
6. **Matthew Goode**: A British actor noted for performances in “The Imitation Game” and “A Single Man.” Goode has garnered a fanbase for his charismatic roles.
7. **Matthew Stafford**: An American football quarterback known for his impactful career in the NFL, currently playing for the Los Angeles Rams.
8. **Matthew O’Brien**: An author and journalist well-known for his work examining the effects of community engagement and urban studies.
9. **Matthew Lillard**: An actor and producer famous for his roles in “Scream” and “Scooby-Doo,” as well as various indie films.
10. **Matthew Goode**: A prominent film and television actor recognized for his compelling performances across a multitude of genres.
Notable Persons with the Last Name Matthew
The surname “Matthew” is not widely recognized, but several notable individuals carry it. Among them is playwright and screenwriter Richard Matthew, who has contributed significantly to modern theater and film. His works often focus on social issues and are celebrated for their depth and engagement with contemporary themes.
How Popular is the Baby Name Matthew in the U.S.?
The name Matthew has remained popular over the past few decades. In recent analysis, it was found to rank as follows: Matthew stands at #13 among baby names in the U.S., maintaining its status as a favored choice. In Canada, it holds a ranking of 8%. Similarly, in Australia, Matthew is popular with a ranking of 12%. In the U.K., it is ranked at 10%, reflecting its enduring appeal in English-speaking countries.
Where is the Name Matthew Popular?
The name Matthew has a strong presence across many English-speaking countries. It is commonly used in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. In these regions, Matthew is often chosen for boys and has been a traditional name handed down through generations. The connection to historical figures such as Saint Matthew adds to its significance, making it a familiar and respected name.
10 Common Last Names for Matthew
1. Matthew Smith
2. Matthew Johnson
3. Matthew Williams
4. Matthew Jones
5. Matthew Brown
6. Matthew Davis
7. Matthew Miller
8. Matthew Wilson
9. Matthew Taylor
10. Matthew Anderson
10 Common First Names for Matthew
1. Matthew Alexander
2. Matthew James
3. Matthew Daniel
4. Matthew David
5. Matthew Joseph
6. Matthew Ryan
7. Matthew Michael
8. Matthew Thomas
9. Matthew Christopher
10. Matthew John
Conclusion
The name Matthew carries a profound legacy and significance. It has been cherished through the ages, not only for its beautiful meaning as “gift of God” but also for its rich cultural resonance and historical roots. From its biblical origins to modern-day popularity, Matthew has captivated hearts as a reliable and classic choice for parents naming their children.
Throughout history, countless notable personalities named Matthew have made impactful contributions across various fields, showcasing the versatility and admiration associated with this name. With its consistent presence on baby name lists, Matthew continues to be a favored choice among new parents today.
Furthermore, the name’s prominence can be observed in a wide range of societies across the globe—reflecting its adaptability and universal appeal. Whether it appears as a first name or as part of a more complex surnaming convention, Matthew remains timeless.
Ultimately, whether through personal connections, cultural references, or historical significance, the name Matthew has solidified its place in our society. It is more than just a name; it symbolizes the warmth of familial bonds, the essence of faith, and the richness of personal identity. As we look ahead, the legacy of the name Matthew is bound to continue, echoing through families and generations to come.
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