Meaning, origin, history
Mato is a name of Slavic origin, derived from the South Slavic word "mato" which means "blind". It is believed to have been used as a nickname for someone who was blind or had impaired vision in one eye. The name has also been associated with the Slavic god Matogar, who was said to be blind in one eye.
The name Mato is most commonly found among people of Croatian and Serbian descent, but it can also be found among other Slavic peoples. It has been used as a given name since at least the Middle Ages, but its popularity has varied over time and place.
One famous bearer of the name Mato was Mato Šekularac, a Croatian footballer who played in the mid-20th century. He is considered one of the greatest players in the history of Croatian football and was known for his skill and elegance on the field.
Overall, while the name Mato may have an unusual meaning, it has a rich history and association with notable figures in Slavic culture.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Mato since 1880
Total births
66
Total since 1880
Peak year
2007
9 births
in 2021
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-15%
↘
vs previous 5 years