All about the name
Matej
Male
« Matej is a Slavic boys' name of Czech and Slovak origin, derived from Matthew meaning 'gift of God'. Popularized by figures like 14th-century King Charles IV's son Matej and historian Matej Bel, it has enduring popularity and cultural significance in Central Europe. »
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Meaning, origin, history
Matej is a name of Slavic origin, specifically from the Czech Republic and Slovakia. It is a variation of the name Matthew, which means "gift of God" in Hebrew. The name Matej has been popular in Central Europe for centuries, with its usage dating back to medieval times.
In the Czech Republic, Matej is often associated with the 14th-century king of Bohemia, Charles IV (also known as Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV), who had a son named Matej. This may have contributed to the name's popularity in that region.
The name Matej has also been used by notable figures throughout history. One such figure is Matej Bel, an 18th-century Slovak historian and author of the first comprehensive history book about Slovakia. Another famous bearer of the name is Matej Krivanek, a Czech athlete who won two Olympic medals in rowing.
In recent years, the name Matej has seen a resurgence in popularity among parents in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and other Slavic countries. It continues to be a beloved name with deep historical roots and cultural significance in these regions.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Matej since 1880
Total births
133
Total since 1880
Peak year
2005
12 births
in 2023
9
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-3%
→
vs previous 5 years