Meaning, origin, history
Matthew is a name of English origin that has been popular for centuries. It comes from the Latin name Matthias, which means "gift of God." In the Bible, Saint Matthew was one of the twelve apostles and also wrote one of the four Gospels. The name was brought to England by the Normans after the Norman Conquest in 1066.
The name Matthew has a long history of use in English-speaking countries. It has been a popular choice for boys since the Middle Ages, although its popularity has waxed and waned over time. In recent years, it has experienced a resurgence in popularity, particularly in the United States.
Matthew is often shortened to Matt or Matty, but other variations include Matthieu (French), Matteo (Italian), and Mathew (British spelling). Some famous people named Matthew include actor Matthew McConaughey, singer-songwriter MattMonro, and former British prime minister Matthew Pinsent. Overall, Matthew is a classic name with a rich history that continues to be popular today.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Matthew since 1880
Total births
5,567
Total since 1880
Peak year
1983
317 births
in 2023
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-21%
↘
vs previous 5 years