Meaning & History
Matheus is a Portuguese given name, a variant of Mateus, which is itself the Portuguese form of Matthew. The name ultimately derives from the Hebrew Mattithiah, meaning "gift of God." In the New Testament, Matthew (also called Levi) was one of the twelve apostles, a tax collector who became the author of the first gospel. The name has been widely used across Christian cultures, with numerous forms in different languages.
Etymology and Origin
Matheus is a Portuguese spelling variant of Mateus, reflecting the same etymological roots. The name's ultimate source is the Hebrew name Mattithiah, composed of the elements mattan (“gift”) and Yah (an abbreviation of Yahweh). In the Greek New Testament, it appears as Matthaios, which was Latinized as Matthaeus and eventually led to forms such as Matthew in English and Mateus/Matheus in Portuguese.
Cultural Significance
In Portuguese-speaking countries, particularly Brazil and Portugal, Matheus is a common given name. It is associated with the apostle Matthew, a saint venerated in many Christian traditions. The name's meaning, “gift of God,” contributes to its enduring popularity.
Notable Bearers
Numerous Brazilian footballers bear the name Matheus, including Matheus Aiás, Matheus Alessandro, and Matheus Biteco (1995–2016). Others include Matheus Pucinelli de Almeida (born 2001), a Brazilian tennis player, and Matheus Alueendo (born 1961), a Namibian military officer. The name also appears among Brazilian soccer players such as Matheus Alves, Matheus Anjos, and Matheus Barbosa.
- Meaning: gift of God (ultimately)
- Origin: Portuguese variant of Mateus, from Hebrew
- Type: Given name
- Usage Regions: Brazil, Portugal (Portuguese-speaking world)
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Matheus