MADS

Mads is a masculine given name used primarily in Denmark and, to a lesser extent, in other Nordic countries. In Danish practice it is usually a standalone name rather than simply a nickname, though it originated as a short form of Mathias.

The name Mathias/Mathias itself comes from the Hebrew name Mattathiah, often translated as “gift of God.” In Denmark, Mads developed from this lineage and gradually established itself as an independent given name, continuing to be used from medieval times to the present.

In terms of distribution, Mads is most common in Denmark and among Danish-speaking communities. It is not typically used as a surname, but related patronymic surnames such as Madsen (meaning “son of Mads”) have been widely adopted in Danish-speaking regions.

Variants and related names include Mathias/Mathias, which share the same Hebrew root. In Danish, Mads is sometimes seen alongside other short forms of biblical or traditional names, but Mads remains primarily a first name in contemporary usage.

Notable people named Mads appear in various fields such as the arts, sports, and academia, reflecting the name’s enduring presence in Danish culture. Related names and forms are often discussed in studies of Nordic naming practices.