Surname Mattes - Meaning and Origin
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Embarking on a fascinating genetic journey with iGENEA, I, a bearer of the surname Mattes, explored my genetic origins and discovered compelling insights about my paternal and maternal lineage. Through cutting-edge genetic markers, the test revealed my strong connections with Western Europe, ancient European women, and potential health prospects.
V. Mattes
read moreMattes: What does the surname Mattes mean?
The surname Mattes is of German origin, although it has a presence in several European countries due to migration. The name is derived from the Hebrew personal name "Matityahu" which translates to "Gift of God". It entered into European languages through the biblical apostle Matthew, whose name was Latinized to Matthias. Over the years, it was shortened to Mattis or Mattes in Germany and similar variations in other countries. So, people named Mattes can be descendants of a person who was named Matthias in his local community. As with many surnames, especially in Europe, it is not uncommon for a name to have variations across different countries and languages, but retain a similar core meaning. So, essentially the last name Mattes signifies a gift from a higher power or deity.
Order DNA origin analysisMattes: Where does the name Mattes come from?
The surname Mattes is a patronymic name originated from the Hebrew given name "Matthew", which means 'gift of God'. The name has diverse spellings due to regional differences and transformations over time.
This surname has ties to both Jewish and Christian communities. As a Jewish surname, Mat(t)es can trace its roots back to the Hebrew name "Matityahu". As a Christian name, it derived from Matthew, one of the twelve apostles in the Christian bible who was a tax collector before he became a disciple.
Today the Mattes surname is common in Germany and parts of Europe. It is also found among Ashkenazi Jewish diaspora worldwide, including in the United States. In Pennsylvania, USA, there is even a borough named Mattes. Like many surnames, Mattes is spread unevenly across the globe, due to processes like migration and intermarriage. However, in general, it remains most common in its areas of origin.
Variations of the surname Mattes
The surname Mattes, which is believed to have its roots in Hebrew, has various spellings and variants. These are influenced by the ethnic background and geographic location of different families. Some of these variants include Mattess, Mattessich, Matti, Mattei, Matteis, Matten, Mattenson, Matteson, and Matthes.
Similar sounding surnames that share the same prehistoric origins include Mathews, Matthews, Mathieson, Matson, and Matheson. These are derivatives of the biblical name “Matthew”, which means “gift of the Lord”. This also extends to forms of Matthew in other languages, such as Matkovic (Croatian), Mateu (Catalan), Matteoni (Italian), and Matus (Slovak).
Though these names come from the same origin, the variation in spelling and pronunciation have largely come about due to migration and language evolution. The spelling and variants continue to evolve, resulting in an even more diverse range of surnames derived from the original root name. It is always possible to have more variations as names continuously change over time and across different cultures.
Famous people with the name Mattes
- Richard J Mattes: Professor of Nutrition Science, Purdue University
- Matthew J. Mattes: American biochemist and immunologist
- Jim Mattes: Former Major League Baseball pitcher
- Anna Mattes: Canadian-German actress and singer
- Peter Mattes: German cinematographer
- Simon Mattes: Footballer currently with Hamburger SV
- Christian Mattes: German swimmer
- Malu Mattes: Writer and filmmaker who owned a production company
- Mauricio Mattes: Soccer player from Brazil
- Michael Mattes: Award-winning film producer and director
- Robin Mattes: Professional bass player and multi-instrumentalist
- Angelina Mattes: Photography, multimedia and video producer
- Michael Mattes: Professional ice hockey player who plays in the DEL league
- Paul Mattes: American professional basketball player
- Ursula Mattes: German stage and medal-winning swimmer
- Christopher Mattes: Former professional American football player
- Eva Mattes: Award-winning German actress
- Stephanie Mattes: Professional dancer, choreographer and dance teacher
- Jad Mattes: British film director, screenwriter, and producer
- John Mattes: Television journalist and Vietnam War veteran