Mateus is a name of Portuguese origin, derived from the Latin name Matthias. The name Matthias is believed to have been used by Saint Matthias, one of the twelve apostles in the New Testament of the Bible. According to tradition, Matthias was chosen to replace Judas Iscariot after his betrayal of Jesus Christ.
The name Mateus is often associated with Portugal due to its popularity in that country. However, it is also found in other parts of the world where Portuguese influence has been significant, such as Brazil and former Portuguese colonies in Africa.
In terms of meaning, Mateus does not have a specific definition like many names do. Instead, its significance comes from its biblical roots and association with Saint Matthias. Some people may interpret the name Mateus to mean "gift of God" or "pertaining to Matthew," but these meanings are not universally accepted.
Throughout history, the name Mateus has been used by several notable figures. One example is Mateus Galaz de Albuquerque, a Portuguese explorer who played a significant role in the colonization of Brazil in the 16th century. Another notable figure with this name is Mateusinhos, a famous Portuguese footballer known for his skill and athleticism.
Overall, Mateus is a name with deep roots in history and culture, particularly in Portugal and other countries influenced by Portuguese language and customs. While its meaning may vary depending on individual interpretation, the name Mateus carries a sense of tradition and heritage that makes it a popular choice among families who wish to honor their Portuguese ancestry or simply appreciate its unique sound and character.
The name Mateus has seen a steady increase in popularity over the years in the United States. From just five births in 1994, the number of babies named Mateus rose to a peak of 52 in 2007. Since then, the number of yearly births with this name has fluctuated between 38 and 51.
While there were fewer than ten births per year for this name from 1994 to 2006, from 2007 onwards, the annual birth count consistently surpassed this threshold. The years 2021 and 2023 saw the highest numbers of babies named Mateus in recent history, with 51 and 47 births respectively.
Overall, since 1994, there have been a total of 905 births to boys named Mateus in the United States. This steady increase in popularity over time indicates that this name is well-liked by parents and has established itself as a popular choice for baby boys.