Mattheus is of Latin origin and means "gift of God." It is a unique variation of the more familiar Matthew, which shares the same meaning. The name Mattheus was popular among early Christians due to its biblical significance, as Matthew was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ and the author of the first Gospel in the New Testament.
Historically, Mattheus has been used throughout Europe, particularly in regions influenced by Latin culture. In some European countries, such as Germany and the Netherlands, it is still considered a distinct name, while in others, like France and Spain, it may be seen as a variant of Mathieu or Mateo respectively.
The name Mattheus tends to be more popular in Catholic communities due to its religious association. However, it has also gained traction among those who appreciate unique and uncommon names with strong meanings. It offers a distinctive alternative for parents looking for a name that is neither too common nor completely unfamiliar.
In the English-speaking world, Mattheus may not be as widely recognized as Matthew, but it has appeared in literature and popular culture. For instance, Mattheus is used as a character's name in some works of fiction, helping to contribute to its broader awareness.
Overall, Mattheus is a rare yet meaningful name with a rich history and cultural significance. Its unique spelling sets it apart from more common variations like Matthew, offering parents an attractive option for those seeking an uncommon yet significant name for their child.
The name Mattheus has had varying popularity over the years with a peak of 15 births in 2007 and lowest points at 5 births in several years including 2008 and 2022. Over the span of these records, from 1995 to 2023, there have been a total of 208 babies named Mattheus.