Gift of God
Matei is the Romanian form of the Hebrew name Mattityahu. It shares the same etymological roots as the English name Matthew, signifying a child given as a divine blessing. It is a classic choice in Eastern Europe that feels fresh and modern in an American context.
Less common today
Matei isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #5,082 in 2019.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
Romanian-French playwright and poet
Famous 19th-century Romanian actor and playwright
17th-century Prince of Wallachia
