Origin
Matthias originates from the Greek name Ματθαῖος (Matthaíos), meaning 'gift of Yahweh' or 'gift of God'. The name appears in the New Testament as the name of the apostle chosen to replace Judas Iscariot and is historically documented in biblical texts. In early Christian Europe, the name became common through saints and religious figures, and it has variants across various languages, including Matthäus in German, Mathieu in French, and_matthias_ in Scandinavian and English contexts.
Meaning
Literal translation is 'gift of Yahweh' or 'gift of God'. In Australian English, the name retains its religious connotation, often associated with faith, integrity, and tradition.
Pronunciation
/məˈtaɪəs/ (muh-tY-əs) — the stress falls on the second syllable with an emphasis on the 'Y' sound, common in Australian English pronunciation as a smooth, flowing name.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Matthias (English)
- Matthäus (German)
- Mathieu (French)
- Matías (Spanish)
Nicknames
- Matt
- Matty
- Mats
Name Days
- 24 February (Feast of St. Matthias)
- 25 February (Western Christian calendar)
- 28 February (Eastern Orthodox calendar)
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with matthias:
- Benjamin and Matthias
- Charlotte and Matthias
- Noah and Matthias
Fun Facts
- Matthias was chosen by lot to replace Judas Iscariot among the apostles, symbolising divine intervention in decision-making.
- The name appears in Australian ecclesiastical records dating back to colonial times, often chosen for its biblical significance.
- Famous Australians include Matthias Cormann (politician) and Matthias Gall (linguist).
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name matthias:
- Reverent
- Loyal
- Tradition-oriented
- Conscientious
Aesthetic Qualities
Classic and distinguished, with a balanced and symmetrical appearance that appeals to those seeking a traditional yet strong name in Australian English.
Geographical Distribution
Fairly evenly distributed across urban and rural areas, with slight higher prevalence in religious communities and among those of Christian faith backgrounds.
Numerological Significance
Number 9, associated with humanitarianism, idealism, and a philosophical approach to life, often reflecting a mature outlook and global awareness in personality.
Astrological Connections
Linked with the Virgo zodiac sign, indicating traits like meticulousness, practicality, and service orientation, ideal for grounding the name in astrological thought.
Historical Context
Historically, the name is associated with biblical figures and saints, contributing to its religious significance. In Australian literature and media, characters bearing the name often embody traits of integrity and faith, reflecting cultural values.
Linguistic Adaptability
Translates easily across languages, with variations suited to local phonetics. The name maintains its recognizability worldwide but adapts spelling and pronunciation subtly in different regions.
Famous People Named matthias
- Matthias Cormann (Politician)
- Matthias Gall (Linguist)
- Matthias Reim (Singer)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2024 | 2 |
2017 | 2 |
2016 | 4 |
2015 | 2 |
2013 | 2 |