Legal Name Meaning: Understanding the Significance Behind Names
Names hold significant importance in our lives, serving as our identity and connection to the world. Every name carries a meaning that transcends its mere letters, and knowing the significance behind a name can provide insight into its history, origin, and cultural implications. In this exploration, we will dive deep into the legal name meaning, particularly focusing on the name “Matthew.”
The Name and Meaning
The name “Matthew” is of Hebrew origin, derived from the name “Mattityahu,” which means “gift of Yahweh” or “gift of God.” This name holds a profound significance, representing a sense of gratitude and divine blessing. In the Greek version, it is written as “Matthaios,” further enriching its cultural roots. According to Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary, “Matthew” is a male given name that signifies a person favored by God and often denotes a strong, reliable character. Other dictionary sources affirm this definition, citing qualities associated with the name such as loyalty, faith, and sincerity. Wiktionary also encapsulates its meaning by highlighting its biblical origin and its use as a surname, showcasing the name’s versatility and far-reaching impact in society.
The History of the Name
The history of the name “Matthew” is rich and fascinating. It has been used since biblical times, as Matthew was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus and is credited with writing the Gospel of Matthew. Over the centuries, the name has been predominantly given to boys, with its usage widespread across various cultures and regions. While traditionally a masculine name, Matthew has occasionally been used for girls in modern times, although less commonly. The name’s presence has diffused globally, with adaptations in different languages, such as “Matteo” in Italian and “Matias” in Spanish, showcasing its versatility and appeal.
15 Fun Facts About the Name
- Matthew is often affectionately shortened to Matt.
- The name Matthew became extremely popular in the United States in the 20th century.
- Matthew was ranked in the top 50 names for boys in the U.S. for over three decades.
- The saint Matthew is the patron saint of tax collectors and accountants.
- In the UK, Matthew is often used as a double-barreled name, such as Matthew-James.
- Matthew’s popularity surged in the 1980s and 1990s, partly due to the famous character Matthew Perry from the show “Friends.”
- Matthew means “gift of God,” which has led to many parents choosing this name hoping the child will embody that gift.
- There are various celebrities in entertainment, sports, and literature with the first name Matthew.
- Matthew is also a common surname in some cultures.
- Children named Matthew are often associated with traits like kindness and intelligence.
- The name has inspired songs, books, and works of art over the years.
- Matthew has multiple variations across languages, making it a globally recognized name.
- In numerology, Matthew is represented by the number 5, indicating a dynamic and adventurous nature.
- The popularity of the name fluctuates with trends but remains a classic choice.
- Matthew is frequently found on lists of most popular baby names worldwide.
What Name Lists Does Matthew Rank For?
As of the latest data, the name Matthew ranks as follows:
- Overall: Matthew is currently #18 in U.S. births.
- Boy: Matthew is currently #14 in U.S. births.
- Girl: Matthew is currently not in the top 1000 names for girls.
10 Notable Persons Named Matthew and Their Biography
- Matthew Perry – Best known for portraying Chandler Bing on the hit television series “Friends,” Matthew Perry has had a successful career in acting and writing. Born in 1969 in Massachusetts, he has also starred in movies and other TV shows, earning acclaim for his comedic talent.
- Matthew McConaughey – An Oscar-winning actor celebrated for his roles in films such as “Dallas Buyers Club” and “Interstellar,” Matthew McConaughey is also an author and philanthropist. Born in Texas, he is well-known for his distinctive voice and charm.
- Matthew Broderick – An actor and singer, known for his roles in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” and “The Producers,” he has made a significant impact on both the film and Broadway theatre industries.
- Matthew Damon – Renowned for his portrayal of Jason Bourne in the “Bourne” film series, Matt Damon is an accomplished actor, filmmaker, and humanitarian known for his activism.
- Matthew Fox – Exceedingly recognized for his role as Jack Shephard on the popular television series “Lost,” Fox is also a talented actor in various films.
- Matthew Stafford – An American football quarterback known for his tenure with the Detroit Lions and now with the Los Angeles Rams.
- Matthew Goode – A British actor celebrated for his roles in films like “The Imitation Game” and “A Single Man,” known for his charm and performance skills.
- Matthew Hiltzik – A well-respected figure in the marketing industry, known for his strategy and leadership in public relations.
- Matthew Lillard – An actor and producer known for his roles in “Scooby-Doo” and “Scream,” he has also done voice work in animation and video games.
- Matthew Sylvester – A talented musician and composer known for creating uplifting and inspiring music worldwide.
Notable Persons With the Last Name Matthew
The surname “Matthew” itself has notable figures such as:
- Hugh Matthew – A prominent scientist known for his work in biological research.
- Mark Matthew – An established author focusing on contemporary fiction and drama. Mark Matthew’s works are celebrated and studied for their insight into modern society.
How Popular is the Baby Name Matthew in the U.S.?
As of recent surveys, the name Matthew remains a popular choice for baby boys in the U.S. It generally ranks in the top 25, reflecting its timeless appeal. In terms of global use, the name is widely embraced in English-speaking countries, holding notable rankings: in Canada, it ranks about 21%, in Australia it’s around 18%, while in the UK, Matthew is around 15% in usage.
Where is the Name Matthew Popular?
Matthew enjoys widespread popularity across many English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Its biblical ties resonate well culturally [with many families naming children Matthew due to the saint’s associations]. The name’s strong presence is evident in baby name lists, consistently ranking among top baby names over the decades.
10 Common Last Names for Matthew
- Matthew Smith
- Matthew Johnson
- Matthew Williams
- Matthew Brown
- Matthew Jones
- Matthew Garcia
- Matthew Miller
- Matthew Davis
- Matthew Rodriguez
- Matthew Martinez
10 Common First Names for Matthew
- Matthew James
- Matthew Alexander
- Matthew David
- Matthew Michael
- Matthew Christopher
- Matthew Joseph
- Matthew Charles
- Matthew Benjamin
- Matthew Daniel
- Matthew Thomas
Conclusion
In conclusion, the name Matthew is not just a commonly used name, but it carries deep historical and cultural significance. From its biblical roots, meaning “gift of God,” to its adaptations and variations across the globe, Matthew continues to be a beloved name for boys. Its rich history, notable personalities, and consistent popularity illustrate its enduring charm. For parents looking for a name that signifies strength, reliability, and a divine blessing, Matthew is a compelling choice. The exploration of Matthew highlights the multifaceted aspects of names and their importance in personal identity and society. It reflects the joy and responsibility that comes with naming a child, a journey that often follows the timeless quest for meaning in our connections and experiences through names.
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