Matheo

Meaning & origin

Matheo, a Spanish and Portuguese spelling variant of Matthew, has been climbing in popularity in the United States since its first recorded use in 1996. In 2025 it reached its peak rank of 750, with an estimated 1 in every 4,965 newborn boys receiving the name. The name has been on a steady upward trajectory since 1997, reflecting a broader trend toward distinctive spellings of classic biblical names. While Matthew has been a mainstay for centuries, Matheo offers a fresh take that retains the traditional meaning 'gift of God.' It is most popular in states with large Hispanic populations, including Nebraska, Florida, and Maryland, where it resonates with cultural heritage while feeling modern and approachable.

Matheo is a Spanish and Portuguese variant of Matthew, which derives from the Hebrew name Mattityahu, meaning 'gift of Yahweh' or 'gift of God'. The name appears in the New Testament as one of the twelve apostles and the traditional author of the first Gospel. While the Matthew form has been common throughout the Christian world since the Middle Ages, the Matheo spelling has seen increased use in the 21st century, particularly among Spanish-speaking communities and as a distinctive alternative in the United States.