Matilda Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Matilda
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name MATILDA. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Matilda
Gender
Female
Origin
French
Lucky Number
6
Meaning of the Name
Matilda is a French feminine name meaning 'strong in war' or 'mighty battle maiden.' It conveys strength, resilience, and powerful feminine energy suitable for a girl destined to be a warrior in her own right.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Venus
Positive Nature
Harmonious, responsible, caring, and artistic.
Negative Traits
Overly idealistic, superficial, possessive, or jealous.
Lucky Colours
Pink, turquoise.
Lucky Days
Friday.
Lucky Stones
Diamond, turquoise.
Harmony Numbers
2, 3, 9.
Best Suited Professions
Artists, musicians, teachers, healthcare workers.
What People Like About You
Warmth, nurturing nature, artistic flair.
Famous People Named Matilda
Matilda of Flanders
Queen Consort
Wife of William the Conqueror and Queen of England
Empress Matilda
Royal claimant
Heiress to English throne during The Anarchy civil war
Matilda Joslyn Gage
Women's rights activist
Prominent suffragist and Native American rights advocate
Roald Dahl's Matilda
Fictional character
Iconic literary character known for intelligence and telekinetic powers
Name Variations & International Equivalents
Click on blue names to explore their detailed meanings. Gray names with will be available soon.
Cultural & Historical Significance
The name's cultural significance extends beyond royalty to literature and national identity. Roald Dahl's beloved character Matilda Wormwood transformed the name's perception for modern audiences, associating it with intellectual brilliance and moral courage. Meanwhile, Australia's iconic folk song 'Waltzing Matilda' embedded the name in that nation's cultural consciousness, though here 'Matilda' refers to a traveler's bundle rather than a person. This diverse cultural footprint demonstrates how Matilda has maintained relevance across centuries, adapting to different cultural contexts while retaining its core meaning of strength and resilience.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals named Matilda are typically characterized by a remarkable blend of intellectual prowess and emotional strength. They often exhibit a quiet confidence that doesn't require external validation, combined with a sharp, analytical mind that excels at problem-solving. Matildas tend to be deeply principled people who stand firm in their convictions, yet they approach challenges with strategic thinking rather than impulsive reactions. Their 'strength in battle' manifests as perseverance through adversity and the courage to defend their beliefs and loved ones.
In social contexts, Matildas often balance independence with loyalty, forming deep, meaningful relationships while maintaining their autonomy. They're frequently described as old souls with wisdom beyond their years, possessing both traditional values and progressive thinking. Many Matildas display a nurturing quality, using their strength to protect and support others rather than dominate. Their intelligence is typically complemented by creativity and curiosity, making them lifelong learners who approach the world with both pragmatism and wonder. This combination of traits makes Matildas natural leaders who inspire through example rather than authority.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary naming trends, Matilda has made a remarkable comeback from relative obscurity to become a fashionable choice for parents seeking names with both historical weight and modern appeal. The name consistently ranks in the top 50 girls' names in Australia and the United Kingdom, with similar popularity across Europe. In the United States, it has climbed steadily since the 1990s, breaking into the top 500 and continuing its upward trajectory. This resurgence is driven by multiple factors: the enduring popularity of Roald Dahl's character, the vintage name revival trend, and parents' appreciation for names with strong, positive meanings. Modern Matildas benefit from multiple nickname options including Tilly, Mattie, and Tillie, allowing for personalization while maintaining the formal name's elegance. The name appeals to parents who want something traditional but not overly common, strong but feminine, and internationally recognizable across multiple cultures.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Symbolically, Matilda represents the power of intelligence and moral courage in overcoming adversity. The name embodies the concept that true strength comes from within—through knowledge, principle, and resilience rather than physical force or aggression. It symbolizes the quiet warrior who fights battles with wisdom and perseverance, often representing the triumph of intellect over brute strength and integrity over convenience. In metaphorical terms, Matilda signifies protection and nurturing strength, suggesting someone who uses their power to shield and uplift others rather than dominate them.
The name also carries symbolic weight as a bridge between tradition and progress, representing women who honor their heritage while forging new paths. It suggests balance between feminine grace and inner fortitude, between respecting history and creating change. In many interpretations, Matilda symbolizes the educated woman—someone who values knowledge as power and uses learning as a tool for personal growth and social improvement. This rich symbolic tapestry makes the name particularly meaningful for families valuing both strength of character and intellectual development.