📅 Since 1880🏆 65 years in top 1001.73% of births at peak
How to pronounce Matthew
MATHY·oo
/ˈmæθj.uː/ · stress on MATHY · 2 syllables
“מַתִּתְיָהוּ - meaning 'gift of God'.”
American origin · Boy name
What does Matthew mean and where does it come from?
Matthew is traditionally a male name derived from the Hebrew name Mattityahu. In some cultures and contemporary contexts, it is adopted for females in various forms. The name has biblical origins, being one of the apostles of Jesus. It has remained a popular name across multiple cultures, symbolizin
Cultural significance
Matthew has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of מַתִּתְיָהוּ - meaning 'gift of god'..
Rising — up 7 spots — currently #32 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#32 · Top 0.02%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#32
7,221
▲ up 7 · +2% births
2022
#39
7,070
▼ down 3 · -5% births
2021
#36
7,479
▼ down 6 · -7% births
2020
#30
8,052
▼ down 15 · -37% births
2015
#15
12,749
▲ up 1 · -10% births
2010
#16
14,134
▼ down 12 · -34% births
2005
#4
21,468
▼ down 1 · -25% births
2000
#3
28,573
▼ down 1 · -13% births
1995
#2
32,875
▲ up 1 · -27% births
1990
#3
44,804
stable · -5% births
1985
#3
47,079
▲ up 3 · +24% births
1980
#6
37,855
▲ up 3 · +33% births
1975
#9
28,550
▲ up 15 · +41% births
1970
#24
20,200
▲ up 12 · +102% births
1965
#36
9,991
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Matthew
1995Rank #2
47,079
#84
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Matthew
Matthew has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. It peaked at #2 in 1995, placing it among the top 10 most popular names. Over 1623K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #117 in 1880 to #32 in 2023. Matthew is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Matthew means "מַתִּתְיָהוּ - meaning 'gift of God'." — 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 Matthew?
Matthew is currently ranked #32 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Matthew?
Matthew 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.
How do you pronounce the name Matthew?
Matthew is a two-syllable name pronounced M AE1 TH Y UW0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Matthew more of a girl or boy name?
Matthew is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Matthew
For a sister
Matthew & Avery♡
Matthew & Zoey♡
Matthew & Sadie♡
Matthew & Addison♡
For a brother
Matthew & Ethan♡
Matthew & Jackson♡
Matthew & Aiden♡
Matthew & Carter♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#32
🇬🇧 UK
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🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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