All about the name

Mat

Male

« Matt is an English name derived from Latin Matthias, meaning 'gift of God'. »

#5770 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

The name Matt is a popular given name of English origin. It is derived from the Latin name Matthias, which means "gift of God." The name Matthias was borne by several prominent figures in biblical history, including one of Jesus Christ's twelve apostles and the first bishop of Jerusalem. In England, the name Matthew became common during the Middle Ages after it was introduced into the country by the Normans. Over time, various shortenings and diminutives of Matthew emerged, such as Matt, Mate, Mathew, and Matthias. Of these variants, Matt has become particularly popular in recent decades and is often used independently of its parent name. Throughout history, people named Matt have been associated with diverse professions and achievements. For example, there are many famous individuals who share this name, including politicians like former U.S. President Matthew McConaughey and athletes such as English footballer Matthew Le Tissier. Additionally, Matt Damon is a well-known American actor who has starred in numerous films and won several prestigious awards. In popular culture, characters named Matt appear frequently in literature, movies, and television shows. Some notable examples include Matthew Cuthbert from "Anne of Green Gables," Matthew Crawley in the British drama series "Downton Abbey," and Matt Murdock, also known as Daredevil, from Marvel Comics and various adaptations. In conclusion, the name Matt is an English variant of the Latin name Matthias, meaning "gift of God." With its biblical roots and numerous prominent bearers throughout history, this name has stood the test of time and continues to be widely used today. Its versatility and familiarity make it a popular choice for parents seeking a classic yet approachable name for their children.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Mat since 1880

Total births
789
Total since 1880
Peak year
1917
21 births
in 2010
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years