Clotilde

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

Clotilde: 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".

Clotilde has maintained its appeal as a feminine name in modern times while preserving its Germanic roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence 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)" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.

Quick Facts About Clotilde

Quick facts about Clotilde
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 Clotilde

Clotilde is pronounced /kloʊˈtɪl.də/(French)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

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

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Clotilde enjoys international appeal, used in 4 different linguistic and cultural contexts including spanish, catalan, french, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

spanishcatalanfrenchitalian
Frequently Asked Questions About Clotilde
What does the name Clotilde mean?
Clotilde 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 Clotilde 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. Clotilde 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 Clotilde?
Clotilde is a germanic name. The name traces back to *hlūdaz *hildiz > Hlōdihildi > Chlotichilda. From its germanic roots, Clotilde spread to become common in spanish, catalan, french, italian. 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.
Is Clotilde a boy or girl name?
Clotilde 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, Clotilde 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 Clotilde?
Clotilde is pronounced "/kloʊˈtɪl.də/". This pronunciation follows fr language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Clotilde is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in spanish, catalan, french, 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 Clotilde can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Clotilde?
Clotilde is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Clotilde gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Clotilde'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, Clotilde holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Clotilde commonly used?
Clotilde spans multiple cultures, including spanish, catalan, french, and 1 other traditions. Though germanic in origin, Clotilde found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Clotilde, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. 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 Clotilde into their naming traditions. A child named Clotilde 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, Clotilde is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Clotilde?
Clotilde 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 Clotilde 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 Clotilde sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Clotilde often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In spanish 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.

Similar Names

Explore More Names