What does Matthias mean and where does it come from?
Matthias (Greek: Ματθίας) is derived from the Hebrew name Mattityahu (מַתִּתְיָהוּ). The meaning 'gift of God' is frequently associated with the biblical Matthias, who was chosen to replace Judas Iscariot as one of the twelve apostles. The name has historical significance and remains popular in vari
Cultural significance
Matthias has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of gift of god.
Peak popularity
Reached #407 in 2018 — currently #482 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greek-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Matthias?
Matthias works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Matthias Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Matthias Rose
Floral · soft ending
Matthias Mae
Sweet · timeless
Matthias Claire
French influence · crisp
Matthias Jane
Literary · strong
Matthias Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Matthias right now?
Declining — down 18 spots — currently #482 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #482 | 628 | ▼ down 18 · -5% births |
| 2022 | #464 | 663 | ▼ down 14 · -2% births |
| 2021 | #450 | 680 | ▼ down 15 · +1% births |
| 2020 | #435 | 676 | ▲ up 119 · +31% births |
| 2015 | #554 | 516 | ▲ up 261 · +97% births |
| 2010 | #815 | 262 | ▲ up 70 · +28% births |
| 2005 | #885 | 205 | ▲ up 335 · +86% births |
| 2000 | #1220 | 110 | ▲ up 12 · +24% births |
| 1995 | #1232 | 89 | ▲ up 122 · +31% births |
| 1990 | #1354 | 68 | ▲ up 78 · +45% births |
| 1985 | #1432 | 47 | ▼ down 135 · -10% births |
| 1980 | #1297 | 52 | ▲ up 648 · +117% births |
| 1975 | #1945 | 24 | ▲ up 366 · +50% births |
| 1970 | #2311 | 16 | ▼ down 311 |
| 1965 | #2000 | 16 | — |
The story of Matthias
Matthias has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 10,137 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1014 in 1880 to #482 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Matthias in 2018:
Matthias by decade
Matthias peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 23 | |
| 1890s | 15 | |
| 1910s | 142 | |
| 1920s | 118 | |
| 1930s | 64 | |
| 1940s | 69 | |
| 1950s | 78 | |
| 1960s | 178 | |
| 1970s | 256 | |
| 1980s | 524 | |
| 1990s | 825 | |
| 2000s | 2,052 | |
| 2010s ★ | 5,117 | |
| 2020s | 676 | |
What are good nicknames for Matthias?
ENGLISH
MatMattMattieMatty
Famous people named Matthias
M(
Matthias (ancient philosopher)
Matthias bore this name in classical Greece, where it was associated with wisdom and learning.
M(
Matthias (modern Greek athlete)
Matthias brought this name to international sporting recognition representing Greece.
M(
Matthias (ancient philosopher)
Matthias bore this name in classical Greece, where it was associated with wisdom and learning.
M(
Matthias (Greek mythological figure)
Matthias carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Matthias?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Matthias also consider these
How is Matthias written in other languages?
What are the girl versions of Matthias?
Common questions about the name Matthias
What does the name Matthias mean?
Matthias means "gift of God" — a name rooted in Greek 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 Matthias?
Matthias is currently ranked #482 in the United States as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Matthias?
Matthias originates from Greek tradition. Greek names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Matthias a classic or a modern name?
Matthias has Greek roots that go back thousands of years, making it a genuine classic rather than a modern invention. Its staying power across generations reflects its fundamental appeal and the strength of its meaning.
What are good nicknames for Matthias?
Matthias 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.