Matthew sits next to 3 phonetic neighbors — Madison, Maisie, and Matilda are the closest matches by sound. Most share Matthew's English-origin cluster, so the rhythm and vowel shape carry across the list.
You searched for names like
"gift of God"
"rosy-cheeked, bright"
"earth, ground"
"star, stars"
"settlement on a cliff"
"possibly related to Ursula (little bear)"
"shining glory"
"bright one"
"contemplation, observation"
"wading, crossing water"
"exalted one, high goddess"
"dear one"
"flower"
"God is gracious (from Jean/Jane lineage)"
"flower; blooming"
Similar sound: These names share phonetic patterns with Matthew — similar vowel sounds, consonant clusters, or rhythm.
Shared roots: Several names on this list have Hebrew origins, giving them the same cultural heritage as Matthew.
Rhythm: Matthew is a 3-syllable name. Names with the same syllable count tend to feel interchangeable when you're narrowing your list.