Mate - Name Meaning and Popularity -

Meaning of Mate

The name Mate (pronounced MAH-teh) traces its roots to Hungarian and South Slavic traditions as a local variant of Matthew, deriving from the Hebrew Matityahu, meaning “gift of God.” Long established in Hungary, Croatia and Slovenia, it has also appeared among American newborns in recent years—typically registering between five and eight births per annum and ranking near the 900th position in national listings. Its concise, two-syllable form conveys a sense of enduring strength and thoughtful character without feeling overused, and its continental flair offers a subtle nod to familial or cultural heritage. In an English-speaking context, Mate may occasionally require a gentle pronunciation cue, a small prompt that nonetheless highlights the name’s rich linguistic lineage.