Tilley

Tilley is a girl's name with ties to Tilly and Tillie, both diminutives of Matilda. Matilda itself originates from the Germanic Mahthilt, meaning "strength in battle," derived from maht ("might" or "power") and hilt, being "battle" or "fight." Matilda was introduced to England during the Norman conquest by Matilda of Flanders, queen consort of William the Conqueror in the 11th century, after which it gained popularity within English and European royal lines. Many of these royal Matildas expressed the strong, warrior-like nature of the name through their actions, such as Matilda of Boulogne, who managed England's affairs and negotiated with David of Scotland in 1139 while her husband was at war. In addition to its regal roots, Tilley connects to the English verb till, meaning "to cultivate the land" or "to plow," from the Middle English tilie, beautifully connecting nobility with the everyday essential labors of farmwork. Tilley also originated as a surname, derived from Tilly-sur-Seulles, and was one of the habitational names brought to England with the Norman Conquest. Still alive and kicking today, Tilley is a testament to its resilience throughout the centuries and makes for an adorable moniker for your little one!