Clotilda

Girl Name
Origin:germanic
Pronunciation:/kloʊˈtɪl.də/

Clotilda: a female name of Germanic origin meaning "This name derives from the Old High German “Chlotichilda,” composed of two elements: “*hlūdaz” (to hear, loud, sound, noise / famous) plus “*hildiz” (battle, fight)". It derives from the Germanic word "*hlūdaz *hildiz > Hlōdihildi > Chlotichilda".

Clotilda is a feminine name that means "This name derives from the Old High German “Chlotichilda,” composed of two elements: “*hlūdaz” (to hear, loud, sound, noise / famous) plus “*hildiz” (battle, fight)". Its Germanic origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.

Quick Facts About Clotilda

Quick facts about Clotilda
OriginGermanic
GenderGirl name
PopularityUncommon

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Old High German “Chlotichilda,” composed of two elements: “*hlūdaz” (to hear, loud, sound, noise / famous) plus “*hildiz” (battle, fight). The name means “illustrious warrior, glorious in battle.” St. Clotilde was the second wife of the Frankish king Clovis I and a princess of Burgundy’s kingdom. Venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church, she was instrumental to her husband’s famous conversion to Christianity. In her later years, she was known for her almsgiving and penitential works of mercy.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

*hlūdaz *hildiz > Hlōdihildi > Chlotichilda

How to Pronounce Clotilda

Clotilda is pronounced /kloʊˈtɪl.də/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Clot-ilda
  2. Say it like: "CLOT-ILDA"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

This name has found popularity across english, and swedish speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.

englishswedish
Name Relationships

Clotilda is a variant form of Clotilde, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.

Frequently Asked Questions About Clotilda
What does the name Clotilda mean?
Clotilda means "This name derives from the Old High German “Chlotichilda,” composed of two elements: “*hlūdaz” (to hear, loud, sound, noise / famous) plus “*hildiz” (battle, fight). The name means “illustrious warrior, glorious in battle.” St. Clotilde was the second wife of the Frankish king Clovis I and a princess of Burgundy’s kingdom. Venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church, she was instrumental to her husband’s famous conversion to Christianity. In her later years, she was known for her almsgiving and penitential works of mercy.". The name comes from *hlūdaz *hildiz > Hlōdihildi > Chlotichilda. This germanic name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Clotilda for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old High German “Chlotichilda,” composed of two elements: “*hlūdaz” (to hear, loud, sound, noise / famous) plus “*hildiz” (battle, fight). The name means “illustrious warrior, glorious in battle.” St. Clotilde was the second wife of the Frankish king Clovis I and a princess of Burgundy’s kingdom. Venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church, she was instrumental to her husband’s famous conversion to Christianity. In her later years, she was known for her almsgiving and penitential works of mercy." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Clotilda offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices. The name is associated with qualities like RELIGION (SAINTS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Clotilda?
Clotilda is a germanic name. The name traces back to *hlūdaz *hildiz > Hlōdihildi > Chlotichilda. From its germanic roots, Clotilda spread to become common in english, swedish. The germanic meaning "This name derives from the Old High German “Chlotichilda,” composed of two elements: “*hlūdaz” (to hear, loud, sound, noise / famous) plus “*hildiz” (battle, fight). The name means “illustrious warrior, glorious in battle.” St. Clotilde was the second wife of the Frankish king Clovis I and a princess of Burgundy’s kingdom. Venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church, she was instrumental to her husband’s famous conversion to Christianity. In her later years, she was known for her almsgiving and penitential works of mercy." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. Clotilda developed as a form of Clotilde, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Clotilda a boy or girl name?
Clotilda is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In germanic tradition, Clotilda has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Old High German “Chlotichilda,” composed of two elements: “*hlūdaz” (to hear, loud, sound, noise / famous) plus “*hildiz” (battle, fight). The name means “illustrious warrior, glorious in battle.” St. Clotilde was the second wife of the Frankish king Clovis I and a princess of Burgundy’s kingdom. Venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church, she was instrumental to her husband’s famous conversion to Christianity. In her later years, she was known for her almsgiving and penitential works of mercy." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Clotilda?
Clotilda is pronounced "/kloʊˈtɪl.də/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Clotilda is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, swedish, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with germanic names, listening to a native speaker say Clotilda can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Clotilda?
Clotilda is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Clotilda gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Clotilda's popularity may vary between germanic communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old High German “Chlotichilda,” composed of two elements: “*hlūdaz” (to hear, loud, sound, noise / famous) plus “*hildiz” (battle, fight). The name means “illustrious warrior, glorious in battle.” St. Clotilde was the second wife of the Frankish king Clovis I and a princess of Burgundy’s kingdom. Venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church, she was instrumental to her husband’s famous conversion to Christianity. In her later years, she was known for her almsgiving and penitential works of mercy." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Clotilda holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Clotilda?
Clotilda is a form of Clotilde. Over time, Clotilde developed into several variations, with Clotilda emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. In germanic tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name derives from the Old High German “Chlotichilda,” composed of two elements: “*hlūdaz” (to hear, loud, sound, noise / famous) plus “*hildiz” (battle, fight). The name means “illustrious warrior, glorious in battle.” St. Clotilde was the second wife of the Frankish king Clovis I and a princess of Burgundy’s kingdom. Venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church, she was instrumental to her husband’s famous conversion to Christianity. In her later years, she was known for her almsgiving and penitential works of mercy.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Clotilda might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In english and swedish, Clotilda may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Clotilda commonly used?
Clotilda is common in english and swedish naming traditions. Though germanic in origin, Clotilda found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Old High German “Chlotichilda,” composed of two elements: “*hlūdaz” (to hear, loud, sound, noise / famous) plus “*hildiz” (battle, fight). The name means “illustrious warrior, glorious in battle.” St. Clotilde was the second wife of the Frankish king Clovis I and a princess of Burgundy’s kingdom. Venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church, she was instrumental to her husband’s famous conversion to Christianity. In her later years, she was known for her almsgiving and penitential works of mercy." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Clotilda into their naming traditions. A child named Clotilda will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Clotilda is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Clotilda?
Clotilda carries associations with RELIGION (SAINTS). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old High German “Chlotichilda,” composed of two elements: “*hlūdaz” (to hear, loud, sound, noise / famous) plus “*hildiz” (battle, fight). The name means “illustrious warrior, glorious in battle.” St. Clotilde was the second wife of the Frankish king Clovis I and a princess of Burgundy’s kingdom. Venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church, she was instrumental to her husband’s famous conversion to Christianity. In her later years, she was known for her almsgiving and penitential works of mercy." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In germanic culture, where Clotilda originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Clotilda sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Clotilda often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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