Boys · #32 in 2025
Matthew: Meaning, Origin & Popularity
- Origin
- Hebrew through Greek
- Meaning
- Gift of Yahweh
- Pronunciation
- MATH-yoo
- Nickname options
- Matt
Origin and meaning
Matthew comes from a Hebrew name meaning gift of Yahweh. Its English form developed through Greek and Latin. The name appears in the New Testament, and related forms are used in many languages.
U.S. popularity
Matthew ranked #32 for boys in the United States in 2025, with 7,003 boys given this spelling. Its highest recorded U.S. rank was #2, reached in 1995–1996. Historical coverage: 1880–2025. Peak refers to rank, not the largest number of births.
Source: Social Security Administration; historical peaks calculated from its national name files. Rankings count each spelling separately within the listed sex.
The Hello Baby Names take
Matthew feels friendly and substantial without becoming elaborate. Matt is direct, while Matty is affectionate. It is a strong option for parents who want a classic full name and a short form that feels entirely natural in everyday conversation.
Things to consider
Matthew and Mateo are related but have different sounds and spelling traditions. Choose the full form you enjoy, not only the shared meaning.
If you love Matthew, consider…
- Daniel: Offers another approachable biblical classic.
- Michael: Shares the familiar full-name and nickname balance.
- Samuel: Adds a gentler, more rounded rhythm.
- Andrew: Brings a similarly adaptable traditional option.
- Nathan: Makes the soft TH sound more compact.
- Benjamin: Adds length and warmth.
- Joseph: Offers a steadier two-syllable alternative.
- Mateo: Keeps the name family with a flowing ending.