Pronunciation: [mˈatθa͡ʊ] (IPA) 
The spelling of the name "Matthau" is a bit tricky, as it doesn't follow traditional English pronunciation rules. It's pronounced mæθaʊ, with the emphasis on the second syllable. The "th" in the first syllable is pronounced like "t", and the "au" in the second syllable is pronounced like "ow". This name is likely of German origin, where the "th" sound is often pronounced like "t", and the "au" sound is pronounced like "ow".
Matthau is a proper noun commonly used to refer to Walter Matthau (1920-2000), an American actor and comedian who achieved considerable fame and acclaim for his versatile performances in film, television, and theater. Matthau's career extended over several decades and he became known for his distinctive style of dry, deadpan humor, often portraying grumpy, yet lovable characters.
Born on October 1, 1920, in New York City, Matthau began his acting career on stage before transitioning to film in the 1950s. He gained widespread recognition for his performance in the critically acclaimed movie "The Odd Couple" (1968), where he played the iconic role of Oscar Madison opposite Jack Lemmon. The film's success solidified their on-screen collaboration, and they went on to star in several other popular movies together.
Matthau's talent was not limited to comedic roles, as he also showcased his acting range in dramatic films such as "Charade" (1963) and "A Face in the Crowd" (1957). Throughout his career, he received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "The Fortune Cookie" (1966).
Due to his immense contribution to the entertainment industry, "Matthau" has now become a familiar name associated with Walter Matthau himself. The name represents an esteemed, influential figure whose performances continue to be celebrated and appreciated, securing his legacy as one of Hollywood's most beloved actors.
The surname "Matthau" has German-Jewish roots. It is derived from the Hebrew personal name "Matityahu", meaning "gift of Yahweh" or "gift of God". In German, this name was transformed into "Matthäus" and later Anglicized as "Matthew" in English. "Matthau" is a variant of the surname "Matthäus", typically associated with the Jewish community. It gained recognition thanks to the American actor Walter Matthau, who had Eastern European Jewish ancestry.
