Matilda
Matilda is a Germanic name from the Old High German Mahthildis, composed of maht, meaning "might" or "strength," and hild, meaning "battle.
Meaning & Story
Matilda is a Germanic name from the Old High German Mahthildis, composed of maht, meaning "might" or "strength," and hild, meaning "battle." The name essentially means "mighty in battle" and was borne by the Holy Roman Empress Matilda in the 12th century. It gained additional cultural resonance through Roald Dahl's beloved 1988 children's novel Matilda, featuring a brilliant, kind-hearted young girl. The name has experienced a strong revival in recent decades.
Matilda is a name with hidden depths — seemingly gentle on the surface, with a quiet strength underneath that becomes apparent over time. It suits a companion with a natural dignity and a perceptive intelligence, the kind of pet who seems to understand everything you say and respond with a knowing look. Whether it belongs to a wise, older dog or a quietly assertive cat who runs the household on her own terms, Matilda is a name for a companion with genuine character.
At a Glance
Popular Breeds Named Matilda
| Breed | Pets Named |
|---|---|
| Bull Dog, English | 38 |
| Labrador Retriever | 31 |
| Yorkshire Terrier | 31 |
| Domestic Shorthair | 5 |
| Domestic Medium Hair | 3 |
| American Shorthair | 1 |
Similar Pet Names
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Matilda a good pet name?
Matilda is a well-known pet name with 316 registered pets. Pets named Matilda are often described as intelligent, dignified, perceptive.
Is Matilda a boy or girl pet name?
Matilda is more commonly given to female pets, though it can be used for any pet.
Is Matilda also a human name?
Yes! Matilda is both a popular pet name (ranked #392 for pets) and a baby name. It is one of 1,600+ names shared between pets and humans on NamesPop.