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HOME > Meaning of Baby Girl Name Matilda

Meaning of Baby Girl Name Matilda

Introduction

Choosing a name for your baby girl can be a daunting task. You want a name that is unique, beautiful, and has a special meaning. One name that fits all these criteria is Matilda. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, popularity, and famous people named Matilda.

Meaning of Matilda

Matilda is a Germanic name that means 'mighty in battle' or 'strength in battle'. It is derived from the Old Germanic name Mahthildis, which is a combination of two words: 'maht', meaning 'might' or 'strength', and 'hild', meaning 'battle'. The name Matilda was popularized in England by the Normans in the 11th century and has been a popular name ever since.

Origin of Matilda

As mentioned earlier, Matilda is a Germanic name that was popularized in England by the Normans. It was a common name among the royalty and nobility in medieval Europe. Matilda of Flanders, the wife of William the Conqueror, was one of the most famous bearers of the name. She was known for her intelligence, strength, and political acumen. Matilda of Scotland, the wife of King Henry I of England, was also a famous bearer of the name. She was known for her piety, charity, and devotion to her husband.

Popularity of Matilda

Matilda has been a popular name throughout history, but its popularity has fluctuated over time. In the United States, Matilda was a popular name in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, but its popularity declined in the mid-20th century. However, in recent years, Matilda has been making a comeback. In 2020, it was ranked #518 in popularity for baby girls in the United States. In the United Kingdom, Matilda has been a popular name for several years and was ranked #27 in popularity in 2020.

Famous People Named Matilda

There have been many famous people named Matilda throughout history. Some of the most notable include: 1. Matilda of Flanders - wife of William the Conqueror 2. Matilda of Scotland - wife of King Henry I of England 3. Matilda Joslyn Gage - American suffragist and women's rights activist 4. Matilda Cuomo - former First Lady of New York 5. Matilda Ledger - daughter of actors Heath Ledger and Michelle Williams 6. Matilda Ramsay - daughter of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay 7. Matilda Lutz - Italian actress 8. Matilda Smedius - Swedish voice actress These women have all made significant contributions to their respective fields and have helped to make the name Matilda even more popular and well-known.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Matilda is a beautiful and unique name for baby girls. Its meaning of 'mighty in battle' or 'strength in battle' gives it a strong and powerful connotation. Its popularity has fluctuated over time, but it has remained a popular name throughout history. With its rich history and famous bearers, Matilda is a name that is sure to stand the test of time.