Matilda meaning and etymology

The name "Matilda" has Germanic origins and is derived from the Old High German name "Mahthildis," which is composed of the elements "maht" meaning "might, strength" and "hild" meaning "battle." Therefore, the literal meaning of Matilda is "mighty in battle." This name reflects attributes of strength, power, and resilience.

Pronounciation

The name "Matilda" is pronounced as mah-TIL-dah. In some regions, it may be pronounced as ma-TIL-dah. The emphasis is typically placed on the second syllable, and the "a" is pronounced as a short "a" sound.

Gender usage

The name "Matilda" is mostly associated with females. While historically it has been used for noble and powerful women, it has not been commonly used for boys or in unisex contexts.

Traits

Individuals with the name "Matilda" are often associated with traits of strength, resilience, intelligence, and determination. The name evokes a sense of power and confidence, reflecting the meaning and historical associations of the name.

Trends

In the United States, the name Matilda has not been very popular in recent decades. It ranked outside of the top 1000 names for girls in 2020. However, it has seen a slight increase in usage in the past few years, indicating a potential resurgence in popularity.

Popularity

While the name "Matilda" has not been highly popular in recent years, it has shown a slight increase in usage, indicating a potential upward trend in popularity. It may become more favored as parents seek strong and historical names for their daughters.

Sociolingustic usage

The usage and perception of the name "Matilda" may be influenced by its historical associations with powerful and noble women. It may be favored by parents seeking a name with strong and timeless qualities for their daughters.

Geographical distribution

The name "Matilda" has been used in various regions with Germanic and English influences, including Germany, England, and Scandinavian countries. Its popularity may vary in different cultural and linguistic contexts.

Compatability initials

The name "Matilda" pairs well with a variety of surnames and middle names due to its classic and versatile nature. It has a harmonious sound with many surnames and can form pleasant initials combinations.

Famous quotes

"Never do anything by halves if you want to get away with it. Be outrageous. Go the whole hog. Make sure everything you do is so completely crazy it's unbelievable." - Roald Dahl, "Matilda"