MATTHIAS
Matthias
Matthias is a British surname of biblical origin, deriving from the given name Matityahu, meaning "gift of God" in Hebrew. It is typically found within English-speaking countries, including the United Kingdom. The name gained popularity in England during the medieval period, often borne by individuals of religious significance.
Origins and Etymology
The surname Matthias can be traced back to the early Christian era and is linked to the apostle of the same name, chosen by lot to replace Judas Iscariot among the Twelve Apostles. The Hebrew name Matityahu (מַתִּתְיָהוּ) has been Anglicised as Matthias, offering a reflection of the Christian heritage embedded in the name.
Distribution and Variants
The distribution of the Matthias surname is predominantly concentrated in the United Kingdom and other English-speaking countries. Variants of the name may include Mathias, Matias, and Mathis, each representing alternative spellings or regional adaptations of the original name.
Notable Bearers
Throughout history, individuals bearing the surname Matthias have made significant contributions in various fields, including academia, the arts, and public service. Notable bearers of the surname include:
- Alfred Matthias:
- An accomplished British painter known for his vibrant landscapes and seascapes.
- Eleanor Matthias:
- A distinguished British historian specialising in medieval studies and heraldry.
Contemporary Significance
In contemporary society, the Matthias surname continues to be passed down through generations, retaining its historical and biblical connotations. Many individuals proudly bear the name Matthias as a symbol of their Christian heritage and familial legacy.
References
For more information on the surname Matthias and its historical significance, researchers may refer to genealogical records, historical archives, and scholarly publications documenting the evolution of surnames in the United Kingdom. Additionally, exploring the biblical references to the apostle Matthias provides a deeper understanding of the origins and symbolism associated with the name.
There are approximately 1,130 people named Matthias in the UK. That makes it roughly the 6,716th most common surname in Britain. Around 17 in a million people in Britain are named Matthias.
Surname type: From given name or forename
Origin: English
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: England
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: English
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Anthony
- Caesar
- Christopher
- David
- Duncan
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Philip
- Richard
Female
- Alison
- Caroline
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Irrum
- Jacqueline
- Janet
- Jennifer
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Michelle
- Nicola
- Samantha
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
- Mathia
- Mathas
- Mathes
- Matheis
- Mathian
- Mathi
- Matthais
- Matthia
- Mathias
- Mathies
- Mathiews
- Mathis
- Mathiss
- Mathius
- Mathys
- Matias
- Matthaei
- Matthas
- Mattheas
- Mattheis
- Matthes
- Mattheys
- Matthiae
- Matthie
- Matthies
- Matthijs
- Matthis
- Matthus
- Matthws
- Matthys
- Mattias
- Mathais
- Matheas
- Mathiasen
- Mathiason
- Mathie
- Mathiu
- Mathiya
- Maths
- Matthai
- Matthaus
- Matthees
- Mattheus
- Matthews
- Matthey
- Matthiasson
- Matthy
- Mattia
- Mattthews
- Mettias
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.