FEATURED SNIPPET PARAGRAPH (55-65 words): Matthew is a Hebrew name meaning “gift of God” or “gift of Yahweh.” Derived from the Hebrew Mattityahu, this masculine name has ranked consistently among America’s top names for over a century. Currently ranked #32 in the United States (SSA, 2023), Matthew carries deep biblical significance as the name of one of Jesus Christ’s twelve apostles and the author of the first Gospel.
M
Matthew
Hebrew origin
Gift of God
Rank
#32
Ranked #32 in US 2023. Peak rank #2 in 1996. Consistently popular for decades.
Gender
Boy
Traditionally a masculine name. Rarely used for girls in modern times.
Births
7,190
7,190 babies named Matthew in 2023. Declining from peak popularity in the 1990s.
Pronunciation
MATH-yoo
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Two syllables: MATH-yoo. Stress on first syllable. Common pronunciation across English-speaking countries.
Trend
Declining
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Peak #2 in 1996. Currently declining but remains a classic choice. Top 50 for over 50 years.
The name Matthew carries a profound meaning that resonates with parents seeking a name with spiritual depth. At its core, Matthew translates to “gift of God” or “gift of Yahweh,” derived from the Hebrew elements “mattat” meaning gift and “Yahu” referring to God. This beautiful meaning speaks directly to the joy and gratitude parents feel when welcoming a child into their lives.
What makes Matthew particularly special is how this meaning has remained remarkably consistent throughout its thousands of years of use. Unlike many names whose meanings have shifted or become obscured over time, Matthew’s core message of divine blessing has stayed clear and powerful. Parents choosing Matthew are selecting a name that communicates love, gratitude, and spiritual significance all at once.
ETYMOLOGY
Word Origin
Mattityahu
מַתִּתְיָהוּ
Original Hebrew
Language
Hebrew
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A Semitic language originating in the ancient Near East. Hebrew names often carry deep religious significance and poetic meanings rooted in biblical tradition.
Literal Meaning
Gift of Yahweh
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“Mattan” means gift, combined with “Yah” (short for Yahweh, the Hebrew name for God). Together they form a theophoric name expressing divine blessing and gratitude.
Name Structure
Theophoric
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A theophoric name embeds the name of a deity. Matthew belongs to a category of Hebrew names that honor God, similar to Jonathan (Yahweh has given) and Nathaniel (Gift of God).
Matthew is exclusively a masculine name traditionally used for boys throughout its history.
GENDER
Name Classification
M
Boy Name
Exclusively Masculine
Historical Usage
0% Female
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Matthew has been firmly established as a masculine name throughout its entire 2,000+ year history. There is no recorded tradition of female usage in any culture or time period.
SSA Classification
Male Only
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US Social Security Administration data consistently categorizes Matthew exclusively under male names. Over 1.6 million boys named Matthew since record-keeping began.
Global Status
Masculine
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Across all cultures and languages where Matthew or its variants exist (Matteo, Mathieu, Matthias), the name remains exclusively masculine with no unisex usage patterns.
Biblical Context
Male Figure
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Named after Matthew the Apostle, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus. As a biblical name tied to a specific male saint, its masculine association is deeply rooted in religious tradition.
The name Matthew carries spiritual weight across multiple religious traditions, reflecting its ancient Hebrew origins and its spread through the Abrahamic faiths. While the name is most prominently associated with Christianity due to its biblical namesake, its Hebrew roots give it significance in Judaism as well.
Understanding how different religious traditions view Matthew can help parents from various backgrounds appreciate the name’s rich spiritual heritage.
RELIGIOUS
Significance
Christianity
Primary Significance
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Matthew holds profound significance as one of Jesus Christ’s twelve apostles. Traditionally regarded as the author of the Gospel of Matthew, he was a tax collector called by Jesus.
Biblical References+
Matthew 9:9, Mark 2:14, Luke 5:27. The name represents transformation and discipleship.
Judaism
Historical Roots
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The Hebrew original Mattityahu appears as the name of the father of Judah Maccabee, leader of the Maccabean revolt. This connection gives the name deep roots in Jewish tradition.
Hebrew Form+
Mattityahu (מַתִּתְיָהוּ) – Associated with Hanukkah and Jewish resistance.
Islam
Permissible
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Matthew is generally considered permissible for Muslims, as it refers to a prophet-like figure recognized in Islamic tradition. The name’s meaning aligns with Islamic naming principles.
Islamic View+
Generally Mubah (Permissible). Biblical names with positive meanings are typically acceptable.
Matthew ranked #32 in 2023, maintaining top-50 status for over five decades of American history.
POPULARITY
US Rankings
Current US Rank 2023
#32
7,190 births recorded
1980s
Peak Era Begins
#3
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Peak era of Matthew’s popularity begins as it enters top 3 nationally, becoming one of the most chosen names of the decade.
1995-1996
All-Time Peak
#2
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Highest position ever reached – narrowly missing the #1 spot. One of the defining names of the 1990s generation.
2000s
Sustained Popularity
Top 10
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Sustained popularity throughout the decade, remaining a top choice for American parents despite emerging naming trends.
2026 Projected
Estimated Trend
#35-40
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Projected continued gradual decline while maintaining top 50 status. A classic name showing natural lifecycle progression.
Global Statistics
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UK
Top 10
Historical
Australia
Top 100
Current
Canada
Top 50
Current
What This Means
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Matthew’s consistent top-50 ranking means your child will have a recognized, respected name without being overly common. The gradual decline actually makes it more distinctive than it was a generation ago.
Matthew stands apart from many popular names because it successfully balances tradition with accessibility. Unlike names that feel dated or overly trendy, Matthew has achieved a rare timelessness that works equally well for a newborn in 2026 as it did for children born fifty years ago.
The name carries significant historical weight without feeling heavy or old-fashioned. What truly sets Matthew apart is its remarkable consistency – few names can claim to have remained in America’s top 50 for over five decades while maintaining their appeal and dignity.
UNIQUE VALUE
Key Insights
Ancient Roots
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Spans millennia
The name Matthew traces back to ancient Israel, connecting your child to thousands of years of history and tradition.
Biblical Ties
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Apostle and author
Direct connection to one of Christianity’s most important figures – an apostle and gospel writer.
Consistency
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Top 50 for 50+ years
Few names can claim such consistent popularity across multiple generations of parents worldwide.
Timeless
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Ages beautifully
Matthew works equally well for a baby, a professional adult, and an elder – a name for all life stages.
Expert Rating
8.3/10
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Sound and Flow9/10
Uniqueness6/10
Cultural Heritage9/10
Ease of Spelling9/10
Personality Vibe
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85%
Trustworthy
90%
Approachable
80%
Intelligent
Cultural perception, not scientific data
Strengths
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Timeless appeal that never feels dated
Universal recognition across cultures
Beautiful meaning of divine gift
Multiple nickname options available
Considerations
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High popularity means sharing the name
Considered common rather than unique
Limited spelling variations
May feel traditional to some parents
Verdict
Matthew remains an excellent choice for parents seeking a name with proven staying power, beautiful meaning, and broad acceptance.
YES. Matthew remains an excellent choice for parents in 2026 because it combines timeless appeal with a beautiful meaning that will never go out of style. With an expert rating of 8.3/10 and over five decades in America’s top 50, Matthew offers proven reliability that trendy names simply cannot match.
This name is perfect for families who value tradition, spiritual significance, and a name that will serve their child well from infancy through adulthood. Matthew works particularly well for parents with Christian or Jewish heritage seeking to honor their faith.
2026 VERDICT
YES
Recommended Choice
Matthew remains an excellent choice for parents in 2026 because it combines timeless appeal with a beautiful meaning that will never go out of style.
Expert Rating
8.3/10
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With over five decades in America’s top 50, Matthew offers proven reliability that trendy names simply cannot match. This rating reflects the name’s consistency, meaning, and broad acceptance.
Ideal For Families Who Value
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Tradition
Spiritual Significance
Timeless Appeal
Reliability
Longevity
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A name that will serve their child well from infancy through adulthood. Matthew ages gracefully and maintains professional credibility at every life stage.
Heritage Connection
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Matthew works particularly well for parents with Christian or Jewish heritage seeking to honor their faith through a name with deep biblical roots.
2026 Outlook
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While trending names come and go, Matthew’s steady decline from peak popularity actually makes it more distinctive in 2026 while retaining all its classic appeal and recognition.
Matthew Name Character and Life Path
Cultural perceptions associate Matthew with trustworthiness, reliability, and strong family values across relationships.
The following analysis reflects cultural naming associations and perceived character traits – not scientific research or prediction of individual personality.
CHARACTER
Cultural Associations
Reflects cultural naming associations, not scientific research or personality prediction.
Emotional Spectrum
Steady and reliable support
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Those named Matthew are culturally perceived as emotionally steady and reliable, offering consistent support to friends and family with calm strength and dependability.
Personal Integrity
Honesty and moral character
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The name Matthew is associated with values of honesty, justice, and moral character, stemming partly from the biblical Matthew’s transformation from tax collector to devoted follower.
Relationships
Deep, lasting connections
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Matthew is perceived as someone who values deep, lasting relationships over superficial connections, suggesting loyalty and commitment in friendships and romantic partnerships.
Career and Life
Trust and communication fields
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Cultural associations link Matthew to fields requiring trust and communication, including teaching, medicine, law, and leadership roles, suggesting professional reliability.
Source: Cultural naming analysis
Name Pairings for Matthew
Matthew pairs beautifully with classic middle names and creates harmonious sibling name combinations.
Finding the perfect name combination for Matthew requires understanding its rhythmic qualities. With two syllables and a soft ending sound, Matthew works well with both short and long middle names. The key is creating a pleasing flow while considering how the full name will sound throughout your child’s life.
PAIRINGS
Click to see more details
Nicknames
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Matt
Matty
Mae
Matt offers a friendly, casual alternative. Matty works well for childhood, while Matthew suits professional settings.
Matthew has been borne by actors, authors, and historical figures who shaped culture and arts.
FAMOUS PEOPLE
Name Bearers
Matthew McConaughey
Actor
Born 1969 | Academy Award Winner
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McConaughey’s success and distinctive personality have given the name modern cultural relevance, showing Matthew can be carried by someone with unique character.
Expression number derived from full name. Life path number is calculated separately from birth date.
Core Traits
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Leadership
Independence
Ambition
Innovation
Determination
Personality Insights
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Number 1 individuals are natural born leaders with a strong drive to succeed. They tend to be independent, self-reliant, and original thinkers who prefer to forge their own path rather than follow others.
Strengths
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Self-confidence and assertiveness
Ability to initiate and lead projects
Creative problem-solving skills
Strong will and perseverance
Challenges
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Tendency toward stubbornness
Difficulty asking for help
Potential for ego-driven decisions
Impatience with others
Numerology is a belief system and should be considered for entertainment purposes only. It is not scientifically validated.
Parents Who Like Matthew Also Like
Parents drawn to Matthew often appreciate other classic biblical names with timeless spiritual significance.
PARENTS ALSO LIKE
Parents who appreciate Matthew’s biblical heritage and classic sound often consider these similar names:
Joshua
Biblical
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Origin
Hebrew
Meaning
God is salvation
Michael
Traditional
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Origin
Hebrew
Meaning
Who is like God
Daniel
Biblical
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Origin
Hebrew
Meaning
God is my judge
Andrew
Traditional
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Origin
Greek
Meaning
Manly, brave
Ethan
Modern
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Origin
Hebrew
Meaning
Strong, enduring
Samuel
Biblical
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Origin
Hebrew
Meaning
God has heard
James
Traditional
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Origin
Hebrew
Meaning
Supplanter
David
Traditional
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Origin
Hebrew
Meaning
Beloved
View More Names
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Nathan
Gift of God
Benjamin
Son of right hand
Jacob
Supplanter
Nicholas
Victory of people
Christopher
Bearer of Christ
Alexander
Defender of men
Jonathan
God has given
Thomas
Twin
Ryan
Little king
Jason
Healer
Final Thoughts on the Name Matthew
Matthew offers timeless biblical heritage, beautiful meaning, and proven popularity for generations of families.
FINAL THOUGHTS
“Matthew represents the rare achievement of a name that has remained meaningful and beloved across centuries – a gift that keeps giving.”
Unique Boy Names Editorial Team
Summary
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Matthew stands as one of the most reliable, meaningful, and enduring names available to parents today. Its three greatest strengths – ancient biblical heritage, a beautiful meaning of divine gift, and remarkable consistency across generations – combine to create a name that feels both traditional and perpetually fresh.
Ideal For Parents Seeking
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A name their child will never have to explain or spell repeatedly, that carries deep spiritual significance, and that will age gracefully from infancy through adulthood.
Key Strengths
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Biblical Heritage
Top 50 Since 1970s
Beautiful Meaning
Universal Recognition
Timeless Appeal
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew
FAQ
Common Questions
What does the name Matthew mean?
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The name Matthew means “gift of God” or “gift of Yahweh,” derived from Hebrew. This beautiful meaning has remained consistent throughout thousands of years of history, making it a meaningful choice for parents expressing gratitude for their child.
Is Matthew a rare name?
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No, Matthew is not a rare name. It ranked #32 in the United States in 2023 with 7,190 births. Matthew has consistently ranked in America’s top 50 names for over five decades.
Is Matthew a boy or girl name?
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Matthew is exclusively a boy’s name. There is no significant tradition or usage of Matthew as a girl’s name. The Social Security Administration categorizes Matthew solely under male names.
What nationality is the name Matthew?
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Matthew is of Hebrew origin, derived from the ancient Hebrew name Mattityahu. Today, Matthew is used internationally, particularly in English-speaking countries and Christian communities worldwide.
Is Matthew a good baby name?
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Yes, Matthew is an excellent baby name choice. With an expert rating of 8.3/10, beautiful meaning, and over 50 years in America’s top 50, Matthew offers proven reliability, spiritual significance, and timeless appeal.
What are nicknames for Matthew?
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Common nicknames include Matt, Matty, and Mae. Matt is the most widely used nickname, offering a friendly, casual alternative. Matty provides a more playful option for childhood.
Is Matthew a biblical name?
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Yes, Matthew is a significant biblical name. Matthew was one of Jesus Christ’s twelve apostles and is traditionally considered the author of the Gospel of Matthew. Originally called Levi, he was a tax collector before becoming a disciple.
