Matthias
/ma-TEE-as/
Matthias is a German via Greek/Hebrew boy's name pronounced /ma-TEE-as/. A long-cherished name that translates to a precious gift from God.
Meaning of Matthias
A long-cherished name that translates to a precious gift from God.
Matthias is the Greek form of the Hebrew name Mattityahu, derived from 'mattan' (gift) and 'Yah' (God). It gained prominence through the New Testament as the name of the apostle chosen to replace Judas Iscariot. The name transitioned from the Greek 'Matthias' into Latin and subsequently became a staple in German and Scandinavian naming traditions.
- Origin
- German via Greek/Hebrew
- Pronunciation
- /ma-TEE-as/
Cultural background
The name remains highly popular in Germany, Austria, and Scandinavia, where it is often associated with traditional Christian heritage. In recent decades, it has maintained a steady presence in North America and Western Europe as a classic, sophisticated alternative to Matthew.
Variations & nicknames
- Mathias
- Matias
- Matthias
- Mats
- Mads
- Matty
Famous people named Matthias
Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.
Saint Matthias
The apostle chosen by the remaining eleven to replace Judas Iscariot.
Religion · 1st century
Matthias Corvinus
King of Hungary and Croatia who led a cultural renaissance in his realm.
Politics · 1458–1490
Matthias Grünewald
German Renaissance painter known for the Isenheim Altarpiece.
Art · 1470–1528
Matthias Schoenaerts
Award-winning Belgian actor known for 'Rust and Bone' and 'The Danish Girl'.
Film · 2000s–present
Matthias Schweighöfer
Prominent German actor, voice artist, and film director.
Film · 1997–present
Matthias Hues
German-born actor and martial artist known for action cinema.
Film · 1980s–present
Frequently asked about Matthias
- What does Matthias mean?
- Matthias is a Hebrew-origin name meaning 'Gift of God' or 'Gift of Yahweh'.
- How do you pronounce Matthias?
- In English, it is typically pronounced muh-THIGH-us. In German, it is pronounced ma-TEE-as.
- Is Matthias a boy or girl name?
- Matthias is traditionally used as a masculine (boy) name.
- What is the difference between Matthias and Matthew?
- Both names share the same Hebrew root, but Matthias is the Greek-derived form used specifically for the 13th apostle, while Matthew refers to the evangelist.
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