Matilda

Matilda is a female given name of Germanic origin, derived from the elements maht, meaning might or strength, and hild, meaning battle. The name has been used in various cultures and languages and is associated with resilience and intellect in popular culture.

In literature, Matilda is the title character of Roald Dahl's 1988 children's novel about a gifted girl who uses her intelligence and telekinetic powers to overcome neglectful guardians and an abusive school headmistress, Miss Trunchbull. The story explores themes of education, family dynamics, and empowerment. A 1996 film adaptation, directed by Danny DeVito, brought the story to cinema with Mara Wilson as Matilda and Embeth Davidtz as Miss Honey. A stage musical adaptation premiered in London's West End in 2011 and later opened on Broadway, expanding the work's reach to new audiences.

In music, Waltzing Matilda is an Australian folk song first published in the early 20th century. The narrative centers on a traveling laborer who, after stealing a sheep, is said to be jailed rather than killed, and the song has been described as an unofficial national anthem in Australia.

In military history, the Matilda name was given to British infantry tanks of the interwar period, notably the Matilda I and Matilda II. These armored vehicles were used by British and Commonwealth forces during the late 1930s and early 1940s, including in North Africa.

Overall, Matilda remains a widely recognized given name and cultural reference, appearing in literature, film, music, and military history.