Meaning & History
Matīss is the Latvian form of Matthew, a name of Hebrew origin meaning "gift of Yahweh." As a given name, Matīss is common in Latvia, where it has been used for centuries alongside other European variants of Matthew. The name derives from the Hebrew Mattityahu, translated in the Greek New Testament as Matthaios, through Latin into Western European languages.
Popularity in Latvia
Matīss has consistently ranked among the top 50 most popular names for newborn boys in Latvia in recent years. According to data from the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, the name peaked around the 2000s and has remained a familiar choice, reflecting a cultural trend of using Latvian language forms of biblical names. Its feminine variant, Matīsa, is less common.
Notable Bearers
- Matīss Kivlenieks (1996–2021), a Latvian ice hockey goaltender who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Columbus Blue Jackets.
- Matīss Akuraters (born 1982), a Latvian classical percussionist and member of the State Chamber Orchestra Sinfonietta Rīga.
- Matīss Burģis (born 1989), a Latvian table tennis player who has competed internationally.
- Matīss Kulačkovskis (born 1997), a Latvian professional basketball player.
Related Names
In other languages and cultures, equivalents include: Armenian Matevos, Basque Matia, English Matthew, and Biblical Hebrew Mattithiah or Mattaniah.
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Matīss