What does Mathews mean and where does it come from?
Mathews is a surname that has evolved into a given name, typically in English-speaking countries. It is derived from Matthew, originating from the Hebrew name 'Matityahu' (מתתיהו) meaning 'gift of God'. The name has historical significance, as Matthew is one of the apostles in the New Testament. Mat
Cultural significance
Mathews has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #934 in 1901 — currently #10545 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Mathews?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Mathews?
Mathews works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Mathews Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Mathews John
One syllable · timeless choice
Mathews Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Mathews Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Mathews Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Mathews Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Mathews right now?
Rising fast — up 1196 spots — currently #10545 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2024 | #10545 | 7 | ▲ up 1196 · +17% births |
| 2023 | #11741 | 6 | ▼ down 4132 · -40% births |
| 2010 | #7609 | 10 | ▼ down 1710 · -23% births |
| 2005 | #5899 | 13 | ▼ down 288 · +8% births |
| 2000 | #5611 | 12 | ▲ up 3339 · +140% births |
| 1995 | #8950 | 5 | ▼ down 5532 · -17% births |
| 1950 | #3418 | 6 | ▼ down 200 · -25% births |
| 1925 | #3218 | 8 | ▼ down 1044 · -47% births |
| 1920 | #2174 | 15 | ▲ up 714 · +88% births |
| 1915 | #2888 | 8 | ▼ down 1359 · +33% births |
| 1910 | #1529 | 6 | — |
The story of Mathews
Mathews has been a beloved American name for over 128 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1896. With 439 total births recorded, Mathews remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1529 in 1910, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #11741 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Mathews in 1901:
Mathews by decade
Mathews peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 6 | |
| 1900s | 7 | |
| 1910s | 70 | |
| 1920s | 73 | |
| 1930s | 14 | |
| 1940s | 10 | |
| 1950s | 6 | |
| 1970s | 12 | |
| 1980s | 46 | |
| 1990s | 43 | |
| 2000s ★ | 113 | |
| 2010s | 39 | |
| 2020s | 7 | |
💎Mathews has only 439 total recorded births since 1896 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Mathews?
What names sound and feel like Mathews?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Mathews also consider these
Common questions about the name Mathews
What does the name Mathews mean?
Mathews means "English" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Mathews?
Mathews is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Mathews?
Mathews originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Mathews a common or rare name?
Mathews is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Mathews?
Mathews naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.