Matilda sits next to 4 phonetic neighbors — Matilde, Mathilda, and Madeleine are the closest matches by sound. Most share Matilda's Germanic cluster, so the rhythm and vowel shape carry across the list.
You searched for names like
"mighty in battle"
"torch, shining light"
"man of God, hero of God"
"son of Matthew, gift of God"
"happiness, good fortune"
"birdlike, of the birds"
"lyre, musical instrument"
"free one"
"transporter of goods by cart"
"goddess of spring"
"clear (as in clear skies)"
"crown of laurels"
"bright, shining light"
"rocky land"
"precious gem"
"divine radiance"
"victorious people"
"diminutive of Julia; little Julia"
"she who brings happiness"
Similar sound: These names share phonetic patterns with Matilda — similar vowel sounds, consonant clusters, or rhythm.
Shared roots: Several names on this list have Germanic origins, giving them the same cultural heritage as Matilda.
Rhythm: Matilda is a 3-syllable name. Names with the same syllable count tend to feel interchangeable when you're narrowing your list.