The name Matthew is of Hebrew origin and means “Gift of God.” It is a name that carries weight without being heavy, bridging the gap between ancient tradition and modern style.
Verdict: Matthew is the perfect choice for a baby born in 2025 if you want a name that anchors your child. It is recognizable but not overused in the current nursery generation, offering a “standard” name that feels fresh again among the sea of unique spellings and new inventions.
Matthew Overview
- Meaning: Matthew means “Gift of God” when translated from Hebrew.
- Gender: Matthew is typically given to boys, though there are female iterations such as Matty and Mattea.
- Origin: Matthew has Hebrew origins. It was initially found in the New Testament as the name of one of Jesus’s Apostles. The name has been translated to almost every language in some form, including “Mattathias” in Greek and Matthaeus in Latin.
- Pronunciation: Matthew is most often pronounced as “MATH-you” in English. However, in Hebrew, “MATH YOO” is the correct way of saying it.
- Popularity: Matthew is a prevalent name globally. It is in the top 25 names for boys in Ireland and the top 10 for males in the US and UK.
- Nicknames: Huey, Matheu, Mato, Mats, Mat, Matty, and Theo.
- Variations: Madis, Mads, Maidiú, Mathúin, Máté, Mateo, Matei, Mateu, Matevž, Matheus, Matteo, Matthaeus, Mathias, Mathieu, Matiss, Matko, Matouš, Matthaios, Mattias, and Mátyás .
- Namesakes: Matthew McConaughey, actor, and author.
- What Does Matthew Mean?
- Where Does the Name Matthew Come From?
- Popularity of Matthew
- Is Matthew a Boy or Girl Name?
- Pronunciation of Matthew
- Best Middle Names for Matthew
- Sibling Names
- Matthew Variations
- Matthew Nicknames
- Names Similar to Matthew
- Famous Matthews
- Matthew in Pop Culture
- FAQs About the Name Matthew
What Does Matthew Mean?
The name Matthew is a testament to gratitude. Translated directly from the Hebrew name Mattityahu, it means “Gift of God.”
To break down the etymology, the name is composed of two Hebrew elements: mattan, meaning “gift,” and Yah, which is a shortened reference to God (Yahweh). This meaning has resonated with parents for millennia, often chosen for a long-awaited child or a “miracle baby.” It carries a spiritual weight that transcends its popularity; it is a declaration that the child is a blessing.
Where Does the Name Matthew Come From?
The name Matthew comes from the bible and has a rich, transformative history. Its journey began in the New Testament with Levi, a tax collector who became one of Jesus’s twelve apostles and the author of the first Gospel. He adopted the name Matthew to mark his new life.
From the Hebrew Mattityahu, the name evolved into the Greek Matthaios. When the Romans adopted it, it became the Latin Matthaeus. It eventually made its way into Old French as Matheu before settling into the English spelling we know today during the Middle Ages. It was introduced to England by the Normans and has been used in the English language continuously since the Middle Ages.
How Popular is the Name Matthew?
If you grew up in the 1980s or 1990s, you likely knew several Matthews. It was a juggernaut of nomenclature, holding a spot in the Top 3 names for boys in the United States for nearly 30 years straight.
In recent years, Matthew has cooled off slightly, slowly descending from the Top 10 to the Top 30s. However, this is actually good news for modern parents. It has transitioned from a “trendy” name to a “timeless classic.” It is no longer ubiquitous in every kindergarten class, yet it remains universally recognized. It is a stable, “blue-chip” stock in the baby name market; it will never sound dated or bizarre.
Is Matthew a Boy or Girl Name?
Matthew is overwhelmingly a masculine name. While the trend of using boy names for girls has risen, Matthew has remained strictly in the male domain for centuries.
For parents seeking a feminine equivalent with the same beautiful meaning, the name Mattea is a lovely Italian variation. Other parents have used the nickname “Mattie” for girls, though usually as a short form of Matilda or Martha rather than Matthew.
How Do I Pronounce Matthew?
In English, the standard pronunciation is MATH-yoo.
It is worth noting that in casual, rapid speech, the “T” and “Y” sounds often merge (a linguistic process called palatalization), causing many people to pronounce it more like “MATH-choo.” While common, the enunciated “MATH-yoo” is considered the proper form.
Best Middle Names for Matthew
Because Matthew is a two-syllable trochee (stressed-unstressed), it is incredibly versatile. It pairs well with short, punchy middle names or longer, lyrical ones.
Classic & Royal Pairings
These combinations feel distinguished and timeless, perfect for a traditional vibe.
- Matthew James: A quintessential, strong combination.
- Matthew Alexander: Sophisticated and commanding.
- Matthew Thomas: Grounded and scholarly.
- Matthew Edward: A very British, regal flow.
- Matthew William: Flows beautifully with soft consonants.
Modern & Crisp Pairings
If you want to update the old name vibe of Matthew, pair it with something sleek and one-syllable.
- Matthew Cole: adds a cool, modern edge.
- Matthew Finn: Energetic and bright.
- Matthew Jett: Gives the name a bit of rock-and-roll flair.
- Matthew Hayes: Preppy and surname-inspired.
- Matthew Quinn: A softer, unisex touch that balances the name.
Earthy & Nature-Inspired
To bring out the gentle side of Matthew, look to the outdoors.
- Matthew River: Peaceful and flowing.
- Matthew Silas: A forest-inspired biblical match.
- Matthew Jasper: Vintage charm with an earthy tone.
- Matthew Reed: Simple, acoustic, and natural.
- Matthew Orion: Adds a celestial, expansive feel.
Sibling Names for Matthew
Matthew fits perfectly into a “classic” sibset. It works best with names that have history but aren’t archaic.
For a Brother
- Christopher: The ultimate peer for Matthew; they defined the 90s together.
- Daniel: Another softer biblical classic that never goes out of style.
- Nicholas: Shares the friendly, approachable vibe.
- Andrew: A fellow Apostle name that feels equally timeless.
- Joseph: Solid, biblical, and universally respected.
For a Sister
- Hannah: Matches the Hebrew origin and gentle sound.
- Emily: The perfect stylistic match in popularity and feel.
- Sarah: A biblical matriarch name that balances Matthew perfectly.
- Elizabeth: Regal, nickname-rich, and enduring.
- Charlotte: A feminine classic that feels current but rooted.
Variations of Matthew
Because the Bible traveled the globe, Matthew has a passport full of variations.
- Mateo (Spanish): Currently hotter than the original, offering a romantic, energetic twist.
- Matteo (Italian): Bouncy and full of life.
- Mathias (Greek/German): A sober, scholarly variation.
- Mathieu (French): Chic and sophisticated.
- Mads (Danish): Short, punchy, and incredibly cool in Scandinavia.
- Matia (Basque): A softer, vowel-heavy option.
- Maciej (Polish): A traditional Eastern European form.
Nicknames for Matthew
While “Matt” is the default, you have other options if you want to avoid the obvious.
- Matt: The reliable standby.
- Matty: Sweet for a young boy, though some carry it into adulthood.
- Teo: A fantastic, modern nickname derived from the end of the name (or Mateo).
- Mats: A Scandinavian short form that works well as a nickname.
- Hew: A rare, vintage-style nickname pulled from the last syllable.
Names Similar to Matthew
If you love the vibe of Matthew but want something slightly different, consider these names that share its “Gentle Biblical” or “Classic Reliable” DNA.
- Micah: Often called the “cool Matthew,” it shares the M-initial and biblical roots but feels lighter.
- Nathan: Like Matthew, it means “He gave” (gift) and has a soft “th” sound.
- Jonathan: A longer, formal name that also means “Gift of Jehovah.”
- Gabriel: Another biblical heavyweight that is soft on the ear.
- Julian: Shares the gentle, gentlemanly vibe of Matthew without the biblical connection.
- Caleb: An Old Testament name that feels rugged yet kind.
- Ethan: A sturdy classic that has enjoyed similar popularity.
- Samuel: Offers the same “great guy” energy and nickname potential (Sam).
Famous People Named Matthew
The list of famous Matthews is extensive, proving the name’s versatility across acting, sports, and leadership.
- Matthew McConaughey: Academy Award-winning actor known for his charisma.
- Matthew Perry: Beloved comedic actor, best known as Chandler Bing on Friends.
- Matthew Broderick: Iconic actor known for Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.
- Matt Damon: Academy Award-winning screenwriter and actor.
- Matthew Stafford: Super Bowl-winning NFL quarterback.
- Matthew Gray Gubler: Actor and director, known for Criminal Minds.
Matthew in Pop Culture
Fictional Matthews often represent the “good guy” or the complex hero.
- Matthew Crawley: The heir in Downton Abbey; he cemented the name’s image as gentlemanly and dashing.
- Matt Murdock: The alter ego of Marvel’s Daredevil, a lawyer by day and vigilante by night.
- Matt Saracen: The shy, lovable quarterback from Friday Night Lights.
- Matthew “Matt” Donovan: A main character in The Vampire Diaries.
FAQs About the Name Matthew
Here are answers to common questions about this enduring name.
What Personality Does the Name Matthew Fit?
The name Matthew often connotes reliability, intelligence, and kindness. In numerology, Matthew is associated with the number 7, which represents a seeker of truth, wisdom, and spiritual understanding. People with this name are often perceived as grounded peacemakers who are observant and analytical.
Is Matthew an English Name?
While the name itself is derived from Hebrew, the spelling “Matthew” is the English form. It arrived in England after the Norman Conquest in 1066. The distinct “ew” ending is a hallmark of the English translation, whereas romance languages tend to end the name in vowels (Mateo, Matteo).
Is Matthew a Good Name?
Yes, Matthew is widely considered an excellent name choice. It hits the “sweet spot” of being universally recognized and easy to spell without being tied to a specific decade. It ages beautifully, sounding just as appropriate for a toddler as it does for a CEO or a grandfather.
What is the Difference Between Matthew and Mathew?
The standard spelling is Matthew with two Ts. This spelling is significantly more popular and traditional. The variation “Mathew” (one T) exists and is a valid surname or first name variant, but it often leads to spelling corrections throughout the child’s life.
Why Did the Popularity of Matthew Drop?
Matthew hasn’t so much “dropped” as it has naturally settled. After enjoying immense saturation in the 80s and 90s, natural name fatigue set in. Modern parents often seek names that sound “new,” leading to a rise in variations like Mateo. However, Matthew remains a Top 40 staple, which is a sign of permanence rather than decline.
Is there a Saint Matthew?
Yes, Saint Matthew is one of the most prominent figures in Christianity. He was one of the twelve apostles and is traditionally considered the author of the Gospel of Matthew. He is the patron saint of accountants, bankers, and tax collectors due to his former profession before following Jesus.
Can Matthew Be Used as a Middle Name?
Absolutely. Matthew is an “universal donor” in the world of middle names. Because it starts with a consonant and ends with a soft vowel sound, it bridges first names and surnames smoothly. It works exceptionally well with one-syllable first names (e.g., Jack Matthew, Luke Matthew).
What Are the Coolest Nicknames for Matthew?
Beyond the standard Matt and Matty, “Teo” (TAY-o) is gaining traction as a cool, modern short form. “Mads” is a sleek Scandinavian option, and “Huey” is a clever vintage nickname derived from the “hew” sound at the end of the name.
