Matthias
muh-THEYE-uhs
Matthias is the Greek form of Mattithyahu, from the Hebrew מַתִּתְיָהוּ meaning “gift of God,” composed of mattan (“gift”) and Yah (God). It is the same root as Matthew.
In the New Testament, Matthias was chosen by lot to replace Judas Iscariot among the twelve apostles (Acts 1:26). This distinction gives the name an apostolic significance separate from Matthew.
Matthias peaked at No. 405 in 2018 with 788 births. In 2024 it ranks No. 471 with 653 births, somewhat below its recent high.
What the name Matthias means
Holy Roman Emperor Matthias (1557 - 1619) and Hungarian king Mátyás Corvinus gave the name royal European standing. In modern culture, it appears across German, Dutch, and Scandinavian countries.
Three syllables - muh-THY-us - have a scholarly, stately rhythm. The aspirated th and final sibilant distinguish it from the simpler Matthew.
Parents who find Matthew too common but love its meaning choose Matthias for its added formality and European flair. It feels elevated without being inaccessible.
The name offers Matt as a natural nickname, providing the same casual option that Matthew users enjoy while maintaining a more distinctive full form.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Matthias
Matthias - similar names
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