No, Matilda is not considered a unisex name. It is overwhelmingly recognized and used as a female name.
Matilda has a rich history rooted deeply in European culture, consistently associated with the female gender. Its origins and centuries of usage firmly establish it as a feminine designation.
The Germanic Roots of Matilda
The name Matilda, along with its variations such as Mathilda and Mathilde, is the English adaptation of the ancient Germanic female name Mahthildis. This powerful name is a compound derived from two Old High German elements:
- "Maht" (meaning "might" and "strength")
- "Hild" (meaning "battle")
Together, these elements evoke the meaning "mighty in battle" or "strong in battle," reflecting a heritage of formidable women.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Throughout history, Matilda has been prominently borne by queens, empresses, and noblewomen, further solidifying its identity as a female name. Its legacy is preserved in various cultural works and historical records:
- Royal Lineage: Notable figures include Empress Matilda (12th-century claimant to the English throne) and Matilda of Flanders (Queen Consort of William the Conqueror).
- Literature: The name gained modern prominence through Roald Dahl's beloved children's book, Matilda, featuring a brilliant and strong-willed young girl.
- Popular Culture: Various songs, films, and television shows have featured characters named Matilda, invariably portraying them as female.
These associations have reinforced the name's feminine identity across generations and cultures.
Modern Usage and Gender Classification
In contemporary naming practices worldwide, Matilda remains almost exclusively a girl's name. Data from various national naming registries consistently shows its usage predominantly for females. For instance, in countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Sweden, Matilda is a popular choice for baby girls and is not recorded with any significant usage for males.
Below is a simple breakdown of its common gender association:
| Name Variation | Gender Association |
|---|---|
| Matilda | Female |
| Mathilda | Female |
| Mathilde | Female |
Sources such as the Social Security Administration in the U.S. and naming trend websites consistently list Matilda among female names. This consistent classification underscores that Matilda has never genuinely crossed into unisex territory.
Why is it not a unisex name?
A name is considered unisex when it is used for both males and females with a degree of regularity in a given culture or time period. While naming trends can evolve, Matilda's strong historical precedent and continuous overwhelming use as a female name prevent it from being classified as unisex. Its etymology, which explicitly identifies it as a female Germanic name, further confirms its single-gender association.
