Meaning & History
Mattias is a masculine given name used primarily in Sweden and Estonia. It is a form of Matthias, which itself derives from the Greek Ματθίας (Matthias), a variant of Ματθαῖος (Matthaios) meaning 'gift of Yahweh'. The name appears in the New Testament as the apostle chosen to replace Judas Iscariot (Acts 1:23-26).
Etymology and Origins
Mattias is a Swedish and Estonian adaptation of Matthias. The root name Matthias has been borne by several notable figures, including kings of Hungary (spelled Mátyás), most famously Matthias I Corvinus, who reigned in the 15th century and enacted major reforms. The name's ultimate origin lies in the Hebrew name Mattithiah, meaning 'gift of Yahweh'.
Variants and Related Forms
In Swedish, common variants include Mathias and Mattis, as well as diminutives such as Mats and Matts. In Estonian, the diminutives Madis and Mati are used. Beyond Scandinavia, cognates exist in many languages: Matevos (Armenian), Matia (Basque), Matthew (English), and Matthias (German), among others.
Notable Bearers
Numerous public figures bear the name Mattias. In sports, there are ice hockey players such as Mattias Ekholm, Mattias Norlinder, and Mattias Öhlund, as well as footballers Mattias Svanberg and Mattias Bjärsmyr. Other notable bearers include Swedish track and field athlete Mattias Sunneborn, and Swedish Army officer Mattias Hansson.
Distribution
Mattias is particularly associated with Sweden and Estonia. It remains a popular given name in both countries, maintaining its cognate status across Scandinavia and the Baltic region.
- Meaning: Swedish and Estonian form of Matthias, 'gift of Yahweh'
- Origin: Hebrew via Greek Matthias
- Type: Given name (masculine)
- Usage Regions: Sweden, Estonia
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Mattias