What does Tilla mean and where does it come from?
Tilla is a diminutive of Matilda, derived from the Germanic elements 'maht' (might) and 'hild' (battle). The name has roots in both German culture and its adaptation in the United States. Tilla has resonated as a unique name over the last few decades, often seen among those who favor vintage or trad
Cultural significance
Tilla has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Germanic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of german.
Peak popularity
Reached #825 in 1881 — currently #1492 in the US.
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Related Reading
Germanic-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Tilla?
Tilla works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Tilla Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Tilla Rose
Floral · soft ending
Tilla Mae
Sweet · timeless
Tilla Claire
French influence · crisp
Tilla Jane
Literary · strong
Tilla Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Tilla right now?
Holding steady — currently #1492 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1492 | 708 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1497 | 688 | ▲ up 5 · +5% births |
| 2021 | #1502 | 658 | ▲ up 6861 · +9300% births |
| 1985 | #8363 | 7 | ▼ down 6623 · +17% births |
| 1905 | #1740 | 6 | ▲ up 225 · +20% births |
| 1900 | #1965 | 5 | ▼ down 833 · -29% births |
| 1890 | #1132 | 7 | ▼ down 33 · +40% births |
| 1885 | #1099 | 5 | — |
The story of Tilla
Tilla has been a beloved American name for over 143 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1881. With 86 total births recorded, Tilla remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1099 in 1885, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1492 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Tilla in 1881:
Tilla by decade
Tilla peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s ★ | 36 | |
| 1890s | 14 | |
| 1900s | 11 | |
| 1910s | 12 | |
| 1920s | 6 | |
| 1980s | 7 | |
💎Tilla has only 86 total recorded births since 1881 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Tilla?
Famous people named Tilla
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Tilla (Germanic saint)
Tilla spread this name through the Germanic missionary tradition of early Christianity.
T(
Tilla (German philosopher)
Tilla used this name in the rich tradition of German intellectual and philosophical culture.
T(
Tilla (medieval German ruler)
Tilla bore this name during the Holy Roman Empire, spreading Germanic naming traditions across Europe.
T(
Tilla (Norse explorer)
Tilla carried this name across Scandinavia and into the North Atlantic during the Viking Age.
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Celebrity Names
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Explore →What names sound and feel like Tilla?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Tilla also consider these
Common questions about the name Tilla
What does the name Tilla mean?
Tilla means "German" — a name rooted in Germanic tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Tilla?
Tilla is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Tilla?
Tilla originates from Germanic tradition. Germanic names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Tilla?
Tilla is a two-syllable name pronounced T IH1 L L AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Tilla a common or rare name?
Tilla is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.