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Mathilde Girl

Popularity: #936 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

Pronunciationma-TEELD / mɑːˈtiːld

German; French

Meaning

German: mighty in battle; French: strength

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Mathilde has its roots in the Germanic elements "maht" meaning "might" or "strength" and "hild" meaning "battle." This etymological foundation is reflected in various forms across different languages, with the name appearing as Mahthildis in Old High German. It subsequently evolved into forms such as Matilda in Old French and Latin, which were influenced by the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century. The name was introduced into English as Matilda, which became widely used following the establishment of the Norman dynasty.

Historically, the name Mathilde is associated with several notable figures. One of the earliest was Saint Mathilde, the wife of King Henry I of Germany, who lived in the 10th century and was canonized for her piety and charitable works. The name gained further prominence through the legendary figure of Matilda of Tuscany, a powerful noblewoman in the 11th century known for her military leadership and support of the papacy during the Investiture Controversy. Additionally, the name is famously borne by Matilda, the daughter of King Henry I of England, who was a significant figure in the succession crisis following her father's death in the early 12th century.

Culturally, the name Mathilde has resonated through literature and folklore, often symbolizing strength and resilience. It has been immortalized in various works, including the medieval epic "The Song of Roland," where characters with similar names embody valor and nobility. The name has also inspired diminutive forms such as Tilda, which, while less formal, carries the same connotations of strength and battle. Overall, Mathilde's historical significance and cultural associations have contributed to its enduring legacy in European history.

Trend Summary

Mathilde has seen a resurgence in popularity in the United States, particularly in the last decade.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Matilda
  • Mathilda

International Variants

  • Matilde (Italian)
  • Mathilde (French)
  • Matilda (English)
  • Matylda (Polish)

Famous people named Mathilde

Mathilde de Belgique is a royal best known for being the Queen of the Belgians.

Mathilde Joly is a singer best known for her participation in various music competitions.

Mathilde Seigner is an actress best known for her roles in The Closet, The Spanish Apartment, and The Girl on the Train.

Fictional characters named Mathilde

Mathilde Loisel is a fictional character from the short story "The Necklace" by Guy de Maupassant. She is a middle-class woman who dreams of a life of luxury and faces dire consequences due to her desire for wealth and status.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Mathilde was first seen in the United States in 1880. Mathilde has ranked as high as #393 nationally, which occurred in 1894, and has been most popular in Louisiana, New York, California, Pennsylvania, and Texas. In the past 5 years the name Mathilde has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Mathilde (2023)

StateBirthsShare
NY 5
50%
CA 5
50%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188011
188111
188214
188312
188418
188518
188621
188727
188826
188925
189025
189126
189227
189328
189432
189530
189622
189722
189829
189912
190024
190121
190220
190315
190418
190512
190626
190716
190818
190917
191024
191127
191226
191321
191425
191523
191626
191718
191832
191922
192021
192120
192224
192331
192426
192516
192613
192712
19289
192910
193013
193111
19327
19348
19355
19375
19426
19465
19516
19527
19685
19716
19755
19855
19866
19897
19907
19915
19928
19936
199412
199510
19966
199716
199813
199913
200018
200116
200217
200312
200413
200523
200618
200724
200819
200920
201017
201131
201223
201319
201419
201527
201624
201729
201828
201920
202018
202123
202220
202328
202414