Tilly is a given name and surname of English origin, with various meanings and historical contexts. As a given name, Tilly is often considered a diminutive of Matilda or Matilde, derived from the Old German name Mahthildis, meaning "mighty in battle" or "strong in war." In some contexts, Tilly can also be a short form of the name Martin. The surname Tilly has French origins, derived from the Old French word "tilleul," meaning "linden tree." In Hebrew, the name Tilly can be translated as טילי (pronounced "Tee-lee"). In German, the name is spelled and pronounced similarly, Tilly, while in Spanish, it is often spelled Tili. Historically, the name Tilly is notably associated with Johann Tserclaes, Count of Tilly (1559–1632), a prominent military leader during the Thirty Years' War. The name has also been used in various literary works and cultural references, further cementing its place in history and popular culture.