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Mathilda

Girl name · 16 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Mathilda: 16 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 5 births in 2015.

Mathilda is the Germanic and Latin spelling of Matilda, from the Old High German *maht* ("might, strength") and *hiltja* ("battle"), so the name means "mighty in battle." It was popularised in Britain by the Normans and later by the medieval Empress Matilda, daughter of Henry I, whose claim to the throne sparked a civil war. The variant form Mathilda is favoured in German and Scandinavian traditions, and is the name of the heroine in Roald Dahl's beloved children's novel *Matilda*, who overcomes neglect through cleverness and telekinesis. Though no major Scottish places bear the name, the root *maht* also appears in the Scottish name Maighread (Margaret), meaning "pearl." In Scotland, Mathilda has been a rare but consistent choice, particularly among parents drawn to its vintage strength.