Origin and Meaning of Mateja

Meaning & Origin

Gift of God

Origin: Hebrew - Derived from the Hebrew name Mattityahu, which combines 'mattan' (gift) and 'Yahu' (God).

Interesting Facts

  • Mateja is a variant of the name Matthew, commonly used in Slavic countries, and is often associated with both masculinity and femininity depending on the culture.
  • In places like Slovenia and Croatia, Mateja is primarily a female name, while in other regions, it can be used for males as well.
  • Notable bearers of the name include Mateja Kežman, a Serbian footballer, and Mateja Svet, a Slovenian alpine ski racer.
  • Mateja's popularity has been fluctuating, with a notable presence in Central Europe. It has maintained a steady usage but is not among the top-ranked names.
  • Related names include Mateo (Spanish), Matthias (German), and Matteo (Italian), showcasing the name's diverse variations across cultures.