All about the name

Matthews

Male

« The name Matthews originates from the Hebrew name Mattityahu, meaning 'gift of Yahweh', and has been popular in English-speaking countries throughout history. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Matthew is a male given name of English origin that has been popular throughout history. The name Matthews comes from the Middle English name Mathew, which was derived from the Hebrew name Mattityahu. This Hebrew name means "gift of Yahweh," which refers to God in the Jewish religion. The name Matthew first appeared in England during the Middle Ages and was often used as a surname. Over time, it evolved into the given name we know today. In the United States, Matthews has been consistently popular since the mid-20th century, reaching its peak popularity in the 1960s and 1970s. Throughout history, several notable figures have carried the name Matthews. For instance, Sir Matthew Pinsent is a British rower who won four consecutive Olympic gold medals between 1984 and 2000. Additionally, Matthew McConaughey is an American actor known for his roles in films such as "Dazed and Confused," "Interstellar," and "Dallas Buyers Club." While Matthews may have a long history and numerous notable bearers, its popularity can be attributed to its simple yet strong sound. It is also considered a unisex name, making it versatile for parents who prefer gender-neutral options. However, despite its versatility, Matthews remains predominantly associated with males.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Matthews since 1880

Total births
1,573
Total since 1880
Peak year
1988
41 births
in 2023
17
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+14%
vs previous 5 years