Matthew is a highly popular boys' name in England & Wales, ranking #47 in 2013 with 1,319 recorded births. The name reached its all-time peak in 1997 with 7,443 births ranking #6. Since 1996, the popularity has decreased by 82.2%. In 2013, approximately 1 in every 253 boys born was named Matthew. FALLING Recent data shows the name is currently falling.
Matthew is a major biblical classic meaning gift of God. It has stayed popular for generations because it feels stable, kind, and widely recognisable.
The name spread through the New Testament and Christian tradition, especially through Saint Matthew the apostle and evangelist. Its longevity gives it a dependable, cross-generational quality.