Tilly
TIL-ee
Tilly is a girl’s name of Germanic origin, meaning “A short form of Matilda or Ottilie, meaning "battle mighty" or "prosperous in battle."”. It currently ranks #953 in the US, and peaked in popularity in 2024.
What Tilly Means
“A short form of Matilda or Ottilie, meaning "battle mighty" or "prosperous in battle."”
The Story of Tilly
This name carries the echo of women who fought for their place in the world, a spirit that calls to your daughter even before she arrives.
Tilly is a diminutive with a formidable past, a nickname often shortened from Germanic names like Matilda, meaning 'battle mighty,' or Ottilie, signifying 'prosperous in battle.' These powerful roots trace back to medieval Europe, where names reflecting strength and victory were common. The name journeyed through generations, often softening into a more playful moniker while retaining its core of resilience.
When you say 'Tilly' aloud, it feels like a quick, bright sound, a promise of energy and joy. It’s the name you’ll whisper when you see her taking her first wobbly steps, or when she surprises you with a burst of unexpected courage. This name feels like holding a small, determined force in your arms, a child ready to charge into life.
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Numerology
The Creative
Expressive, joyful, and imaginative. Names vibrating at 3 inspire creativity and optimism.
Famous Namesakes
Tilly Losch
Austrian dancer, choreographer, actress, painter
Personality Traits
Peak Year
#273 in 2024
Total Births
2,395
First Recorded
1912
More Names Like Tilly
View allEmma
Germanic
Meaning
Emma means 'universal' or 'whole'. It is of Germanic origin, originally a diminutive of names beginning with 'ermen'.
Amelia
Germanic
Meaning
Work. From the Germanic name Amalia, meaning 'work' or 'striving'.
Ava
Germanic
Meaning
Ava has uncertain origins, possibly derived from the Germanic name Avila, meaning 'desired'. It may also be a short form of names like Avaline or Chava (Hebrew for 'life').
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