Matia is the Basque form of Matthew. Matthew ultimately derives from the Hebrew name Mattithiah, meaning 'gift of Yahweh.' The name Matia reflects the adaptation of Matthew into the Basque language, which has a distinct phonetic and orthographic system from Spanish or French, the dominant languages in the Basque-speaking regions. In the Basque Country, Matia is used as a first name, though it is relatively rare compared to the more common forms like Mateo or Matxalen. The name may have been introduced through Christianization, as Matthew was an apostle and evangelist. In some contexts, Matia is also the Hawaiian and Romanian form of Matthias, a variant of Matthew that appears in the New Testament. Notable Bearers Notable figures bearing a related form include historical rulers such as Matthias Corvinus, the 15th-century king of Hungary. In modern times, the name Matthew has been famously borne by American naval officer Matthew C. Perry, as well as actors Matthew Broderick, Matthew McConaughey, and Matthew Perry. Cultural Significance The name Matia aligns with the onomastic traditions of the Basque language, which often preserves archaic forms. Basque names frequently derive from Latin or Greek sources filtered through local pronunciation. While Mateo (from the Spanish Mateo) is more common, Matia represents a nativized version that fits Basque phonology. Meaning: Gift of Yahweh Origin: Basque form of Matthew Type: First name, male Regions: Basque Country