Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
Tilly is a name with Old German origins, derived from the name Matilda, which means 'battle-mighty.' It has evolved through historical forms such as Matilda and Tilda. The name conveys traits of strength and resilience, though it does not have biblical significance. Tilly gained popularity in the 19th century and continues to be well-received today, often seen as a friendly and approachable name.
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/ˈtɪli/
Origin
Old German
Etymology
Tilly is derived from the Germanic name 'Matilda,' which means 'battle-mighty.' It originally comes from the elements 'maht' meaning 'might' and 'hild' meaning 'battle.'
Meaning
battle-mighty
Language Evolution
Matilda, Tilda, Tilly
Historical Usage
Tilly became popular in the English-speaking world during the 19th century as a diminutive form of Matilda. It has remained in use as both a given name and a nickname.
Variants & Derivatives
Tilda, Matilda, Tillie
Modern Popularity & Image
Currently, Tilly is perceived as a charming and friendly name, often associated with warmth and approachability. It has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, particularly in English-speaking countries.
Famous People
Tilly Devine, an Australian crime figure, Tilly Keyes, a popular British author
📊 Trend Analysis
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Name Visualizations
Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 273 peak births in 2024
Geographic Spread
Popular across 33 US states, with strongest presence in Utah
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 7 different American generations with varying popularity
🔊 Alternative Spellings & Similar Sounds (4 Variations)
Explore names that share identical pronunciation with different spellings. These variations offer alternative options for parents seeking unique yet familiar-sounding choices. This curated collection includes 4 carefully selected variations that maintain the same phonetic sound while providing distinct spelling options.
Why consider alternative spellings? Different spellings can offer unique cultural significance or personal preference while maintaining the familiar sound. This collection covers various spelling patterns, helping you find variations that match your preferences.
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Girl | 5394th of 9107 | 42 |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Girl | 6604th of 9204 | 22 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Girl | 9454th of 12526 | 18 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 11362nd of 19264 | 33 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 14169th of 27321 | 46 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 5356th of 35406 | 377 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 1447th of 30306 | 1,857 |
Regional Popularity by Generation - Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
Regional Popularity by Generation - Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
88.26% 4044th/4582 |
70.45% 3638th/5164 |
- |
65.34% 4876th/7463 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
29.89% 1191st/3984 |
46.07% 2067th/4487 |
21.40% 1460th/6822 |
23.60% 1481st/6276 |
State-by-State Popularity
This map shows relative popularity across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends in the United States
This name shows strongest popularity in Utah across all generations. It ranks highest as a Girl name among the Generation Alpha generation in the MidWest region. Recent 3-year trends show this Girl name is gaining popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, usage has been too falling for female in MidWest, stalled for female in Northeast, too falling for female in South, stalled for female in West. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for female in MidWest, stalled for female in Northeast, stalled for female in South, stalled for female in West. Across generations, popularity patterns vary significantly: Among the G.I. Generation (1901-1927), it ranked 5394th out of 9107 names. Among the Silent Generation (1928-1945), it ranked 6604th out of 9204 names. Among the Baby Boomers (1946-1964), it ranked 9454th out of 12526 names. Among the Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980), it ranked 11362nd out of 19264 names. Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 14169th out of 27321 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 5356th out of 35406 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 1447th out of 30306 names. Explore how this name has evolved through American history with comprehensive regional and generational analysis.