Surname Mattar - Meaning and Origin

Mattar: What does the surname Mattar mean?

The last name Mattar is of Arabic origin and it directly translates as “rain.” This name is quite popular in Arabic-speaking countries, particularly in Lebanon. It may have originated as a nickname or occupational name for someone who had a strong connection with the rain, perhaps a farmer or an individual whose livelihood or life was significantly impacted by rainfall. It is also possible that it had a figurative meaning, perhaps referring to a person considered to be a blessing—just as rain is often viewed as a blessing, particularly in arid regions where water is scarce. Like many surnames, Mattar has variations in spelling, sometimes seen as Matter or Matar. Tracing its specific origins can be complex due to the evolving nature of language and the mobility of populations over centuries. As a surname, Mattar would have been passed down through generations, typically along the patrilineal line, preserving a familial or ancestral connection to the original bearer of the name.

Mattar: Where does the name Mattar come from?

The last name Mattar is of Arabic origin, derived from the word “Al-Matar” meaning “the rain.” It's often given to someone who was born or baptized during or after a heavy rainfall. Today, the surname is common in many Middle Eastern countries, specifically Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. It is also prevalent in countries where there is a substantial Lebanese or Arab population like Canada, the United States, and Brazil. Notably, in the South American country of Brazil, the Lebanese diaspora has made the surname fairly well-known. Therefore, while the roots of the Mattar surname can be traced back to the Arab world, migration and the passage of time have dispersed bearers of this last name across the globe.

Variations of the surname Mattar

The surname Mattar has Middle Eastern origins, particularly common among Lebanese, Syrian, and Palestinian communities. Variants of this last name might vary due to regional dialects, changes over time, or translations. Common spellings could include Matter, Matar, Mater, and Matir. Similarly, Mataar or Mattaar can be other possible variations.

These variations can occur due to phonetic translations between languages written in Arabic script to those using Latin script like English, leading to the different spelling interpretations. Furthermore, in Arabic, the surname may hold meanings such as "rain" or could be the root word for "driver."

However, it's important to note that the surname may not have a direct connection with family lines sharing the same surname but different spellings due to the widespread use and common nature of these names among Arab societies. In other words, not everyone with the Mattar variant might be immediately related to each other.

Understanding the potential evolution of the surname requires knowledge of family history, migration patterns, linguistic alterations, and script changes.

Famous people with the name Mattar

• Ali Mattar: Lebanese athlete, runner who has participated in the Olympic games and was the Lebanese Athletics Champion.
• Khaled Mattar: Emirati politician who is a member of the Federal National Council and is on the list of the 50 most influential Arabs.
• Omar Mattar: Jordanian business leader, the CEO of Watani Investment Company and a board member at KASB Bank.
• Humberto Mattar: Venezuelan politician and the former President of the National Assembly.
• Khaled Mattar: Emirati singer, rapper and performing artist.
• Kamal Mattar: Iraqi journalist and multiple award-winning TV presenter.
• Imad Mattar: Jordanian businessman involved in partnerships with companies such as Coca-Cola, Pfizer, and Microsoft.
• Anas Mattar: Syrian film director and writer.
• Ghassan Mattar: Lebanese actor, director and producer well-known for his roles in television series and films.
• Sawsan Mattar: Egyptian actress who has starred in several series and feature films.

Other surnames

MattasonMattausch