What Is the Full Name for Tilly?
Tilly is most often a short form of Matilda, a Germanic name meaning "battle mighty." It can also be a nickname for names like Matilde, Mathilde, or Tilda, all sharing the same root.
Origin and Meaning
The name Matilda entered English usage through Old German and later French forms. It combines "maht" (might) and "hild" (battle). Historical records show variants such as Mahaut, Maud, and Milde, with Tilly emerging as a familiar diminutive.
Notable People Named Tilly
Tilly is used as a given name or nickname for several public figures. For example, Tilly Smith is known for warning others about the 2004 tsunami, and Tilly Lockey is recognized for her advocacy and use of advanced prosthetic arms. The name also appears in film and literature, often as a short, memorable form of Matilda.
