France is a country known for its romance, deep artistic history, and outstanding natural beauty. A French name can pay homage to this great nation’s political, linguistic, and cultural history. We have curated lists of common French names and their meanings and a comprehensive list of French baby names for boys and girls.
French Names and Meanings
French names reflect the beautiful historic naming practices that have helped shape French identity. Common French name themes include religion, with the names of saints, Biblical figures, and names indicating religious veneration and devotion being common. These names have an inherent beauty to them because of the French language and give the impression that one is cultured, refined, and romantic. One of the great qualities of French names is their historicity: many names have been used for centuries and passed down through ancestors and godparents. These names are unique because they embody French culture’s history and diversity. In 1993, French laws banning illegal names were relaxed, but if a name is not in a child’s best interest, the government can still reject the name.
French is a Romance language descended from Latin, and this ancient language has significant influence over French names. Germanic languages have also left their mark on French names, along with Biblical languages like Greek and Hebrew and other ancient European languages, emphasizing the connectedness of France with Europe. This page features common French names, along with our curated lists of French baby names organized by theme.
Top 100 French Names
This list comprises common French names and their meanings, which remain popular baby names choices for girls and boys in France. These names have a long-standing tradition and continue to be popular choices among French parents.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Marie – Bitter, beloved | Pierre – Rock |
| Jeanne – God is gracious | Jean – God is gracious |
| Michelle – Who is like God? | Louis – Famous warrior |
| Catherine – Pure | François – Frenchman, Free man |
| Françoise – Free, from France | Henri – Ruler of the home |
| Claire – Clear, bright | Paul – Small, humble |
| Anne – Grace | Alexandre – Defender of mankind |
| Marguerite – Pearl | Antoine – Priceless, invaluable |
| Jacqueline – Supplanter | Nicolas – Victory of the people |
| Nicole – Victory of the people | Michel – Who is like God? |
| Suzanne – Lily | Robert – Bright fame, famous |
| Louise – Famous warrior | André – Man, warrior |
| Monique – Advisor, counselor | Charles – Free man |
| Danielle – God is my judge | Marcel – Little Marcus |
| Brigitte – Exalted, lofty | Julien – Youthful |
| Christine – Follower of Christ | Georges – Farmer, Earth worker |
| Chantal – Stony, rocky | Claude – Lame, crippled |
| Martine – Warlike | Jacques – Supplanter |
| Isabelle – God is my oath | Alain – Rock |
| Nathalie – Christmas child | Philippe – Lover of horses |
| Valérie – Strong, healthy | Bernard – Brave as a bear |
| Édith – Prosperous in war, riches | René – Reborn, born again |
| Sylvie – Forest, woods | Christian – Follower of Christ |
| Sandrine – Defender of mankind | Luc – Light |
| Sophie – Wisdom | Richard – Brave ruler, powerful leader |
| Stéphanie – Crown or garland | Olivier – Olive tree |
| Carole – Free man or man | Éric – Eternal ruler |
| Céline – Heavenly | Bruno – Brown, shield |
| Véronique – True image, image of victory | Yves – Yew |
| Patricia – Noble, patrician | Patrick – Noble |
| Pascale – Related to Easter | Marc – Warlike |
| Florence – Blossoming, prosperous | Daniel – God is my judge |
| Corinne – Maiden, spear | Pascal – Easter child |
| Élisabeth – God is my oath | Gérard – Spear strength, brave with a spear |
| Julie – Youthful, downy | Vincent – Conquering |
| Hélène – Torch, light | David – Beloved |
| Mireille – Admirable, to admire | Gilles – Youthful |
| Virginie – Pure, virgin | Laurent – Laurel |
| Pauline – Small, humble | Jérôme – Sacred name |
| Béatrice – Bringer of joy | Dominique – Of the Lord |
| Dominique – Belonging to the Lord | Thierry – Power of the people |
| Lucie – Light | Didier – Desired |
| Yvonne – Yew tree | Thomas – Twin |
| Angélique – Angelic | Christophe – Bearer of Christ |
| Agnès – Chaste | Guy – Guide, leader |
| Delphine – Dolphin | Stéphane – Crown, garland |
| Cécile – Blind | Serge – Servant |
| Caroline – Free man, woman | Francis – Frenchman, from France |
| Madeleine – Woman from Magdala | Xavier – Bright, splendid |
| Élodie – Foreign riches | Frédéric – Peaceful ruler |
| Amélie – Hardworking, industrious | Emmanuel – God is with us |
| Amandine – Worthy of love | Roger – Famous spear, renowned warrior |
| Manon – Bitter, wished-for child | Patrice – Nobleman |
| Audrey – Noble strength, noble ruler | Hugues – Heart, mind |
| Anne-Marie – Grace and bitter, beloved | Denis – God of wine |
| Adeline – Nobility | Lionel – Young lion |
| Fanny – Frenchman | Benoît – Blessed |
| Marlène – Wished-for child and from Magdala | Yann – God is gracious |
| Charlotte – Free man | Mathieu – Gift of God |
| Estelle – Star | Guillaume – Resolute protector |
| Magali – From Magdala | Maxime – Greatest |
| Jessica – God beholds | Loïc – Famous warrior |
| Mélanie – Black, dark | Sylvain – Forest |
| Émeline – Industrious, hardworking | Damien – To tame |
| Roxane – Dawn, bright | Samuel – Name of God, heard by God |
| Léa – Weary, tired | Tristan – Sad, Melancholy |
| Clara – Clear, bright | Jules – Youthful |
| Romane – A Roman | Romain – From Rome |
| Annette – Grace, favor | Gauthier – Ruler of the army |
| Noëlle – Christmas, born on Christmas | Alexis – Defender, helper |
| Josiane – Grace | Thibault – Courageous people |
| Gaëlle – Generous in Breton | Grégoire – Watchful, vigilant |
| Emilie – Rival, eager | Ludovic – Famous warrior |
| Solène – Dignified, solemn | Yannick – God is gracious |
| Colette – Victory of the people | Bastien – Revered, venerable |
| Inès – Chaste, pure | Augustin – Great, venerable |
| Laure – From Laurentum | Gabriel – God is my strength |
| Élise – Pledged to God | Martin – Of Mars, warlike |
| Justine – Fair, just | Clément – Merciful |
| Gisèle – Pledge, hostage | Aurélien – Golden |
| Camille – Attendant at a religious ceremony | Quentin – Fifth |
| Anaïs – Grace, favor | Léo – Lion |
| Aurélie – Golden, dawn | Étienne – Crown, garland |
| Lucienne – Light, torch | Benjamin – Son of the right hand |
| Jocelyne – Gaut’s family | Maurice – Dark-skinned |
| Marianne – Star of the sea, and grace | Arnaud – Eagle ruler |
| Odile – Wealth, fortune and hild battle | Cédric – Bounty, kindly |
| Margaux – Pearl | Fabien – Bean grower |
| Bénédicte – Blessed | Victor – Victorious |
| Léonie – Lioness | Sébastien – Venerable, revered |
| Alice – Nobility | Bertrand – Bright raven |
| Laurence – From Laurentum | Cyril – Lordly, masterful |
| Geneviève – Tribe woman, woman of the race | Rémi – Oarsman, rower |
| Denise – Of Dionysos, the Greek god of wine | Anthony – Priceless, invaluable |
| Clotilde – Famous in battle | Kevin – Gentle |
| Noémie – Pleasantness, sweetness | Baptiste – Baptizer |
| Aurore – Dawn | Jérémie – God will uplift |
| Victoire – Victory | Tony – priceless, highly praiseworthy |
| Gabrielle – God is my strength | Florent – Flowering, prosperous |
| Mathilde – Mighty in battle | Mathis – Gift of God |
Unique French Names
French names are known for their uniqueness and elegance. This list of hand-picked names contains some of the most interesting French names, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage and history.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Allura – Divine, charming | Auguste – Great, venerable |
| Annabelle – Gracious, beautiful | Augustine – Great, venerable |
| Antoinette – Priceless, inestimable | Cabot – Wooden shoe |
| Arielle – Lion of God, lioness | Camille – Attendant at a religious ceremony |
| Armelle – Princess, soldier | Casimir – Proclaiming peace |
| Auguste – Revered, exalted | Corbin – Raven |
| Blanchette – white, little fair one | Devereaux – From the alder grove |
| Brielle – God is my strength | Dion – Of Zeus, divine |
| Caprice – Whim, fancy | Eden – Delight, paradise |
| Carolina – Free man | Elijah – My God is Yahweh |
| Chiara – Clear, bright | Elliott – Yahweh is God |
| Claudette – Lame, crippled | Enzo – Prince of home |
| Coeur – Heart | Ferdinand – Bold voyager, brave traveler |
| Coraline – Coral | Gabin – From Gabio, God is my strength |
| Elaina – Shining light, sun ray | Gable – Gift of God |
| Elaine – Shining light, sun ray | Hayden – Heathen, from the hedged valley |
| Emmeline – Industrious, striving | Jaden – God has heard |
| Eugénie – Well-born, noble | Jean-Baptiste – John the Baptist |
| Évangéline – Good news, bearer of good news | Jean-Philippe – God is gracious and Friend of horses |
| Farah – Joy, happiness | Jermaine – Brotherly |
| Fleur – Flower | Jeter – Occupational surname for a jetty, wharf worker |
| Geneva – Juniper tree | Joël – Yahweh is God |
| Giselle – Pledge, hostage | Jonas – Dove |
| Hildegarde – Battle protection, fortress | Joshua – Yahweh is salvation |
| Joëlle – God is willing, God will add | Josué – Yahweh is salvation, God is my salvation |
| Jolie – Pretty, beautiful | Justice – Just, fair |
| Julienne – Youthful, downy | Justin – Just, righteous |
| Juliette – Youthful | Kenzo – Strong and healthy |
| Lara – Famous, protection | Killian – War, strife |
| Leïla – Dark beauty, night | Kylian – Small, slender |
| Léonne – Lioness | Léandre – Lion man |
| Lilia – Lily | Léonel – Young lion |
| Lisette – Pledged to God | Loukas – Man from Lucania |
| Lourdes – Reference to Lourdes, France | Lukas – Man from Lucania |
| Madelyn – High tower, woman from Magdala | Maison – House, home |
| Maïa – Mother, nurse | Marceau – Young warrior |
| Mallory – Unlucky, unfortunate | Marcus – Mars, the Roman god of war |
| Margot – Pearl | Marlon – Variant of Merlin, little falcon |
| Marion – Star of the sea | Martial – Warlike |
| Maude – Powerful battler, battle-mighty | Matthias – Gift of God |
| Nadia – Hope, filled with hope | Matthieu – Gift of Yahweh, Gift of God |
| Nicolette – Victory of the people | Mercer – Occupational surname for a merchant, trader |
| Noémi – Pleasantness, sweetness | Naël – Thankful, praised |
| Normandie – Region of Normandy | Nelson – Son of Neil, son of the champion |
| Odette – Wealthy, rich | Rafael – God has healed |
| Olive – Olive tree, symbol of peace | Ronan – Little seal |
| Olympe – From Mount Olympus | Royal – Regal, kingly |
| Ophélie – Help, aid | Saber – Sword, sharp |
| Paloma – Dove | Sacha – Defender of mankind |
| Paris – City of Paris, wallet | Siméon – Hearkening, obedient |
| Priscilla – Ancient, venerable | Spencer – Occupational surname for a dispenser of provisions |
| Sabrina – From the river Severn | Sullivan – Dark-eyed, hawk-eyed |
| Sasha – Defender of mankind | Tao – Way, path |
| Serena – Serene, calm | Timéo – Honoring God, Honored by God |
| Simone – God is heard | Toussaint – All Saints’ Day, all saints |
| Sixtine – Sixth, from the sixth | Travis – At the crossroads, toll collector |
| Solenne – Solemn, dignified | Ulysse – French form of Ulysses |
| Soraya – Jewel, gem | Virgile – Wand |
| Vanessa – Butterfly | Warren – Game park, enclosed pasture |
| Violaine – Violet | Wesley – Western meadow, western wood |
Cute French Names
Whether it’s a diminutive form of a traditional name or a name that sounds sweet, cute French names have a special way of adding charm to a baby name. This list of cute French names embodies the delight of the cutest of French patisseries.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Aimée – Beloved, loved one | Achille – Pain, lipless |
| Alba – Dawn, white | Adrien – From Hadria |
| Annie – Gracious, merciful | Aramis – Character in The Three Musketeers |
| Aurélia – Golden, dawn | Aubin – White, fair |
| Belle – Beautiful | Beau – Beautiful, handsome |
| Bibi – Diminutive of Elizabeth, God is my oath | Beaumont – Beautiful mountain |
| Bijou – Jewel | Bellamy – Good friend |
| Billie – Will, determination | Bleu – Blue |
| Blaise – Stammering, lisp | Claud – Lame, crippled |
| Blaize – Stammering, lisp | Clovis – Famous warrior |
| Bleu – Blue | Corentin – From Curentinus, the name of a Breton saint |
| Capucine – Nasturtium flower | Courtney – Transferred use of an English surname meaning short nose |
| Cassie – Unheeded prophetess | Croix – Cross |
| Cerise – Cherry | Cyrille – Lordly, masterful |
| Chanel – Channel, pipe | Edouard – Rich guard, wealthy guardian |
| Charlie – Free man, woman | Eli – Ascended, uplifted |
| Cherie – Dear, beloved | Elias – Yahweh is my God |
| Chloe – Green shoot | Elio – Variant of Helios, the Greek god of the sun |
| Christel – Follower of Christ | Elliot – Yahweh is God |
| Christelle – Follower of Christ | Ezio – Good condition |
| Clementine – Merciful, gentle | Ezra – Helper, helper of God |
| Cléo – Famous, glorious | Fabrice – Craftsman, artisan |
| Coco – Diminutive of Nicole, victory of the people | Faustin – Lucky, auspicious |
| Collette – Victory of the people | Félix – Lucky, fortunate |
| Cosette – Victory, victorious people | Freddy – Peaceful ruler, Peaceful king |
| Courtney – Courtier, court attendant | Gaël – Irish |
| Darcy – Dark one, fortress | Garnet – Dark red, deep red gemstone |
| Delancey – From the ancient town of Launceston | Harry – Ruler of the home, Army ruler |
| Dior – Golden | Harvey – Battle-worthy, eager for battle |
| Dulcet – Sweet, pleasant | Hervé – Army warrior |
| Eliana – God has answered | Hugo – Mind, spirit |
| Elie – God is my help | Isaïah – Yahweh is salvation, God is my salvation |
| Ella – Beautiful fairy, goddess | Jacob – Supplanter, holder of the heel |
| Elle – She, her | Jayden – Modern invented name with uncertain meaning |
| Elsa – Noble, God’s promise | Jean-Christophe – God is gracious and Bearer of Christ |
| Emmie – Universal, whole | Jean-Claude – God is gracious and Lame, crippled |
| Eulalie – Sweet-speaking, well-spoken | Jean-Marc – Warlike |
| Eve – Life, living | Jean-Pierre – God is gracious and Rock, stone |
| Fifi – Diminutive of Josephine, God will increase | Jean-Yves – God is gracious, yew wood |
| Flora – Flower | Jessé – Gift, wealth |
| Gable – Triangular-shaped hill | Kaïs – Variant of Kais, Kayis with uncertain meaning |
| Gigi – Diminutive of Georgina, farmer | Léon – Lion |
| Isabeau – God is my oath | Maël – Chief, prince |
| Jewel – Precious gemstone | Marius – From the Roman clan name Marii |
| Joie – Joy | Martine – Warrior of Mars, Warlike |
| Kiki – Nickname for names starting with K | Max – Greatest, Most excellent |
| Lia – Weary, tired | Maxence – Greatest |
| Lilly – Lily | Montague – Pointed mountain, sharp mountain |
| Lily – Lily | Morgan – Sea circle, great brightness |
| Lucile – Light, torch | Noé – Rest, comfort |
| Maddie – Diminutive of Madeline, high tower | Noël – Christmas, born on Christmas |
| Madelynn – Woman from Magdala | Noham – Derived from a Breton word meaning peace |
| Marietta – Bitter, wished-for child | Percy – Pierce valley, pierced valley |
| Maxime – Greatest, most excellent | Prosper – Fortunate, successful |
| Mélodie – Melody | Quincy – Estate of the fifth son, from the place called Quincy |
| Mimi – Diminutive of Miriam, wished-for child | Rayan – Watered, abundant |
| Modeste – Modest, humble | Rémy – Oarsman, rower |
| Morgane – Sea circle, bright sea | Robin – Fame, bright fame |
| Musette – Small bag, pouch | Rodolphe – Famous wolf |
| Neïla – Attainer of success, champion | Rolland – Renowned in the land |
| Ninette – Grace, favor | Romilly – Hill of the robbers |
| Noëlla – Christmas, born on Christmas | Roux – Red-haired, reddish-brown |
| Nour – Light, illumination | Sabin – A sabine |
| Nouvel – New, fresh | Sami – Elevated, high |
| Page – Attendant, servant | Sasha – Defender of mankind |
| Raine – Queen, sovereign | Sinclair – Clear, pure |
| Reine – Queen | Sully – Dark-eyed, Black-eyed |
| Roux – Red-haired | Sylvester – Of the forest |
| Sidonie – From Sidon, a city in Lebanon | Tancrède – Thought and counsel |
| Silvie – From the forest, woods | Téo – Gift of God, God-given |
| Sorrel – Reddish-brown | Théo – God-given |
| Sorrell – Reddish-brown | Théodore – God’s gift |
| Suzie – Diminutive of Susan, lily | Tiago – Supplanter, Holder of the heel |
| Talya – Dew from heaven, lamb | Timon – Honor, to honor |
| Violette – Violet | Valentin – Strong, vigorous |
Fancy French Names
Fancy French names have an air of elegance, sophistication, and refinement. The names on this list are perfect for the most elegant and bourgeoisie Francophiles and their babies-to-be.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Adette – Noble, kind | Adélard – Noble and brave |
| Agathe – Good, honorable | Antonin – Priceless, invaluable |
| Albertine – Noble and bright | Armand – Army man, soldier |
| Alouette – Lark (bird) | Arnoux – Eagle ruler, Ruler with an eagle |
| Amalia – Industrious, hardworking | Basile – Kingly, royal |
| Amour – Love | Beauchamp – Beautiful field, beautiful countryside |
| Apolline – From Apollo, the Greek god of music and poetry | Boniface – Good fate, fortunate |
| Burgundy – Region in France known for its wine | Dartagnan – Fictional character in The Three Musketeers |
| Celestine – Heavenly | Deveraux – From the alder grove |
| Chantilly – From Chantilly, a town in France | Diego – Supplanter, holder of the heel |
| Constance – Steadfastness, constancy | Eliott – Yahweh is God |
| Coralie – Coral | Fabio – Bean farmer, bean grower |
| Emmanuelle – God is with us | Flavio – Golden, yellow-haired |
| Ernestine – Earnest, serious | Florentin – Blooming, flowering |
| Florent – Flourishing, prosperous | Florin – Flower, blooming |
| Florette – Small flower | François-Xavier – Frenchman, new house |
| Ghislaine – Pledge, hostage | Gaston – Guest, stranger |
| Gwendoline – White circle, fair | Gustave – Staff of the Geats, royal staff |
| Héloïse – Healthy, wide | Hadrien – From Hadria, dark |
| Honore – Honor, respect | Idris – Ardent lord, fiery lord |
| Honorine – Honor, respect | Isaac – He will laugh, laughter |
| Jeanette – Diminutive of Jeanne, meaning God is gracious | Isidore – Gift of Isis, gift of the goddess Isis |
| Larue – The street, the road | Jean-François – God is gracious, Frenchman |
| Léontine – Lioness | Jean-Paul – God is gracious and Small, humble |
| Léopoldine – Bold leader | Joseph – God will increase, God will add |
| Lizette – God is my oath | Léandro – Lion man, Lion-like |
| Lucille – Light | Lorenzo – Laurel, crowned with laurel |
| Maëlys – Beloved, wished-for child | Lucien – Light, illumination |
| Magdalen – Woman from Magdala | Luis – Famous warrior, Renowned fighter |
| Marcelline – Warlike, martial | Manuel – God is with us |
| Margeaux – Pearl | Mathéo – Gift of God |
| Margo – Pearl | Mathys – Gift of Yahweh, Gift of God |
| Marylou – Bitter, beloved and famous warrior | Miguel – Who is like God? |
| Mélisande – Honey bee, gentle strength | Naïm – Delight, comfort |
| Melisandre – Honey bee, gentle strength | Napoléon – Lion of Naples, new city |
| Mignon – Cute, darling | Noah – Rest, comfort |
| Mirabelle – Wondrous, admirable | Oscar – God’s spear, deer lover |
| Mirielle – Wondrous, admirable | Paolo – Small, Humble |
| Noèle – Christmas, born on Christmas | Pascale – Easter, born on Easter |
| Pierette – Rock, stone | Philémon – Loving, affectionate |
| Reinette – Queen, little queen | Philippe-Alexandre – Defending men |
| Roselle – Little rose | Prewitt – Variant of Pruitt with uncertain meaning |
| Rosemarie – Rose and bitter, beloved | Reynard – Wise, brave |
| Satine – Silky, satin-like | Roland – Famous land |
| Séraphine – Seraph, angelic | Salinger – Saddle maker |
| Suzette – Diminutive of Suzanne, meaning lily | Sandro – Defender of mankind |
| Thaïs – Bond, union | Séverin – Severe, stern |
| Turquoise – Precious gemstone | Sohan – Charming, pleasing |
| Vedette – Star, leading lady | Tanguy – Fire dog |
| Yseult – Fair, beautiful | Thiago – Supplanter, Holder of the heel |
| Yves – Yew tree | Tino – Strength, health |
| Zenaida – Born of Zeus, belonging to Zeus | Ugo – Mind, Intellect,, Spirit |
| Zéphyrine – West wind, gentle breeze | Vidal – Life, vitality |
Pretty French Names
Pretty French names are renowned for their delicate beauty and graceful charm. These pretty French names are for those who want to reflect the beauty of Frances’ flowers and architecture.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Abélia – Breath, breathing | Abel – Breath, vapor |
| Abella – Breath, breathing | Adrian – Man of Adria, from Hadria |
| Amabel – Lovable, loving | Ames – Friend, companion |
| Amabelle – Lovable, loving | Antonie – Priceless, Highly praiseworthy |
| Amalie – Hardworking, industrious | Bayard – Chestnut, reddish-brown |
| Ambre – Amber, jewel | Beauregard – Beautiful gaze, beautiful countenance |
| Anabelle – Graceful, beautiful | Bonaventure – Good fortune, good luck |
| Anastasie – Resurrection, rebirth | Boris – Wolf, snow leopard |
| Anelise – Graced with God’s bounty | Bouvier – Oxherd, cattle herder |
| Arabelle – Beautiful lion | Caton – Pure, chaste |
| Arlette – Eagle, strong | Chevalier – Knight, horseman |
| Assia – Healer, soothing | Clemence – Merciful, gentle |
| Avril – April, springtime | Constantin – Constant, steadfast |
| Brie – From the region of Brie in France | Dominic – Belonging to the Lord, of the Lord |
| Brittany – From Brittany, a region in France | Donatien – Related to giving or gift |
| Camila – Attendant, servant of the temple | Dorian – Of the sea, from Doris |
| Chamonix – From Chamonix, a town in the French Alps | Edgar – Wealthy spear, prosperous spear |
| Chardonnay – Type of white wine grape | Eliot – Yahweh is God |
| Clarisse – Clear, bright | Éloi – Chosen one, elect |
| Croix – Cross | Évariste – Well-pleasing |
| Délia – Delicate, tender | Faron – Handsome, glorious |
| Délice – Delight, pleasure | Florian – Flower, blooming |
| Désirée – Desired, longed for | Florimond – Flower and world |
| Devereaux – From the place with the oaks | François-Pierre – Frenchman and stone |
| Eléanore – Bright, shining one | Gérald – Brave spear, Bold spear |
| Élénora – Bright, shining one | Gilbert – Bright pledge, bright hostage |
| Elinore – Bright, shining one | Hélier – Derived from the name of a Breton saint, Helerius |
| Ellie – Diminutive of Eleanor, bright, shining one | Herbert – Bright army, illustrious warrior |
| Emilia – Rival, eager | Horace – Timekeeper, hour |
| Emilienne – Rival | Hubert – Bright mind, bright heart |
| Fabienne – Bean grower, grower of beans | Ilyan – Variant of Ilian, Elian with uncertain meaning |
| Fabiola – Bean grower, grower of beans | Ilyes – Yahweh is God, My God is Yahweh |
| Frostine – Frozen, frosty | Jean-Charles – God is gracious and Free man |
| Georgette – Farmer, earth worker | Julian – Youthful, downy-bearded |
| Henrietta – Ruler of the household | Lamar – Derived from a surname meaning the sea, the lake |
| Jasmine – Jasmine flower, fragrant flower | Larue – The street, the road |
| Josette – God will add, God increases | Laurentin – From Laurentum, crowned with laurel |
| Katia – Pure, unsullied | Léonard – Brave lion, lion-hearted |
| Lilou – Lily, lily flower | Lou – Famous warrior, Renowned fighter |
| Louna – Moon, lunar | Lyam – Resolute protector, strong-willed warrior |
| Maria – Bitter, beloved | Malik – King, sovereign |
| Maribel – Bitter, beloved and beautiful | Marvin – Sea hill |
| Mariel – Bitter, beloved and God | Nathanaël – Gift of God, God has given |
| Maya – Illusion, enchantment | Neville – New town, new village |
| Mélody – Melody | Noa – Motion, Movement |
| Minette – Small, delicate | Noam – Pleasantness, charm |
| Naomi – Pleasantness, sweetness | Norman – Northman, Norseman |
| Odelia – Praise God, wealthy | Odilon – Rich, prosperous |
| Ottilie – Wealth, fortune | Orville – Gold town, gold town |
| Patrice – Noble, patrician | Paulin – Small, humble |
| Sojourner – Traveler, wanderer | Percival – Hard spear, hard destroyer |
| Solange – Dignified, solemn | Philibert – Bright |
| Soleil – Sun, sunlight | Pierre-Emmanuel – Stone and God is with us |
| Soline – Sun, sunlight | Pierre-Yves – Stone and yew wood |
| Sophia – Wisdom, wise | Renée – Reborn, Born again |
| Vivienne – Alive, lively | Ryan – Little king, little ruler |
| Yasmina – Jasmine flower, fragrant flower | Simon – He has heard, God has heard |
| Yvette – Yew tree | Soan – Uncertain meaning |
| Zenia – Hospitable, friendly | Théophane – Manifestation of God |
| Zoé – Life | Valentine – Strong, healthy |
| Eleonore – A sun ray | Vitus – Life, alive |
Cool French Names
Cool names are known for their edgy and effortlessly stylish vibe. This list of names embraces the spirit of cool French naming trends and will flaunt your artistic and free-thinking side.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Aramis – Devoted to Mars (Roman god of war) | Axel – Father of peace, divine reward |
| Astrid – Divine strength, beautiful goddess | Azure – Sky blue, clear blue |
| Axelle – Peaceful, divine peace | Blaise – Stammerer, lisping |
| Azure – Sky blue, blue color | Blaize – Stutterer, One who stammers |
| Calais – From Calais, a city in France | Calvin – Bald, hairless |
| Cléa – Illustrious, famous | Cavalier – Knight, horseman |
| Crescent – Moon-shaped, curved | Chance – Fortune, luck |
| Déja – Already, previously | Dax – Dax, in southwestern France |
| Ember – Spark, burning coal | Eddy – Wealthy guard |
| Etienne – Crowned, victorious | Gage – Pledge, security |
| Harlequin – Multicolored, clown-like | German – Warrior |
| Jules – Youthful, downy-bearded | Lancelot – Lance, spear |
| Landry – Ruler, powerful | Logan – Little hollow, small meadow |
| Laramie – Tearful, weeping | Luka – From Lucania, Light-bringer |
| Lucette – Light, illuminated | Marin – Of the sea, from the sea |
| Luna – Moon, lunar | Mars – Derived from the name of the Roman god of war |
| Marine – From the sea | Marseilles – Derived from the French city name, Marseille |
| Maxim – Greatest, most excellent | Marshall – Horse servant, caretaker of horses |
| Monet – From the monastery, monk-like | Maxim – Greatest, most excellent |
| Morgana – Sea circle, sea fortress | Néo – New, recent |
| Mystique – Mystery, enigma | Raine – Variant of Rain, Reign with uncertain meaning |
| Océane – Ocean, sea | Rainier – Counsel of the army, wise warrior |
| Réba – Fourth-born, fourth child | Ranger – Forest guardian, forest keeper |
| Régine – Queenly, regal | Roman – Roman, of Rome |
| Roxanne – Dawn, bright | Salomon – Peaceful, Peaceable |
| Saber – Sword, saber | Samson – Sun, bright sun |
| Seychelle – From Seychelles | Talon – Claw, nail |
| Solstice – Sun, sunlight | Urbain – From the city, urban |
| Sydney – Wide island, from Saint-Denis | Xavière – New house, Bright |
| Toulouse – From Toulouse, a city in France | Zachary – God has remembered |
| Victorine – Victorious, conqueror | Zack – Yahweh remembers, God remembers |
| Zélie – Zealous, ardent | Zayn – Beauty, grace |
Old French Names
Old French names harken back to the French Renaissance and reflect the traditions and influences of the time. These old-fashioned French names were pulled from France’s long and glorious history.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Angeline – Messenger, angelic | Abraham – Father of many, father of a multitude |
| Appoline – Strength, beauty | Aïden – Little fire, fiery |
| Barbara – Foreign, stranger | Alan – Rock, noble |
| Bernadette – Brave as a bear | Albert – Noble, bright |
| Blanche – White, fair | Albin – White, fair |
| Cassandra – Shining upon men, entangled | Alfred – Elf counsel, wise counselor |
| Cécilia – Blind, dim-sighted | Algernon – Bearded, with a mustache |
| Céleste – Heavenly, celestial | Aloïs – Variant of Louis, Aloysius with uncertain meaning |
| Celia – Blind | Anatol – Rising sun, east |
| Charlène – Strong, womanly | Anatole – Sunrise, eastern |
| Cheryl – Beloved, darling | Antione – Priceless, Highly praiseworthy |
| Claude – Lame, limping | Anton – Priceless, invaluable |
| Claudine – Lame, limping | Arsène – Virile, masculine |
| Cynthia – Moon, moon goddess | Barthélémy – Son of Talmai (furrow) |
| Daphné – Laurel tree, laurel wreath | Benard – Brave as a bear, Strong bear |
| Déborah – Bee, bee-like | Constant – Steadfast, constant |
| Eléna – Bright, shining one | Cosme – Order, decorum |
| Eloïse – Healthy, wide | Darcy – From Arcy, dark one |
| Esme – Loved, esteemed | Davide – Beloved, Friend |
| Estee – Star | Dennis – Wild, frenzied |
| Esther – Star, myrtle leaf | Edmond – Wealthy protector, rich defender |
| Evelyne – Desired, wished for | Emile – Rival, eager |
| France – From France, free one | Ernest – Serious, resolute |
| Francine – Free, from France | Eugène – Well-born, noble |
| Géraldine – Ruler with the spear | Eustache – Fruitful, productive |
| Gertrude – Spear of strength, spear maiden | Fernand – Brave traveler, Bold voyager |
| Gilberte – Bright pledge | Firmin – Firm, steadfast |
| Ginette – Virgin, maiden | Frank – Free, honest |
| Gladys – Country, nation | Gaétan – From Gaeta |
| Ida – Hardworking, laborious | Geoffroy – Peaceful territory |
| Inaya – Concern, care | Géraud – Rule of the spear |
| Irène – Peace, peaceful | Germaine – German, from Germany |
| Iris – Rainbow, messenger of the gods | Grégory – Vigilant, watchful |
| Isadora – Gift of Isis | Harold – Leader of the army |
| Jean – God is gracious | Honoré – Honored, respected |
| Joséphine – God will add, God increases | Humbert – Bright warrior, brilliant warrior |
| Judith – Woman of Judea, woman from Judea | Jean-Noël – God is gracious, and Christmas |
| Juliet – Youthful, downy-bearded | Jeremy – God will uplift |
| Kyara – Clear, pure | Jonathan – Yahweh has given, gift of God |
| Laetitia – Joy, happiness | Kamil – Perfect, complete |
| Laya – Musical, melodious | Lambert – Land bright, bright land |
| Léna – Light, shining | Lamont – The mountain, the hill |
| Linda – Pretty, beautiful | Léonce – Lion, lion-like |
| Linnet – Small bird, linnet bird | Léopold – Bold people, brave people |
| Lison – God is my oath, pledged to God | Leroy – The king, the king’s |
| Livie – Life, lively | Marcelin – Young warrior, little warrior |
| Lorraine – From Lorraine region | Marcelle – Young warrior, Dedicated to Mars |
| Louane – Renowned warrior, famous warrior | Matthew – Gift of God, gift of Yahweh |
| Louisiana – Famous warrior, renowned warrior | Melvin – Chief, leader |
| Maelle – Chief or princess | Melvyn – Council protector, Handsome friend |
| Marian – Of the sea, sea of bitterness | Michaël – Who is like God?, who is as God? |
| Maud – Mighty in battle, strength in battle | Michéle – Who is like God? |
| Mavis – Songbird, small bird | Mickaël – Who is like God? |
| Mélina – Honey, honey bee | Narcisse – Numbness, Daffodil |
| Miya – Temple, sacred house | Norbert – Bright north, famous north |
| Muriel – Bright sea, sea-bright | Normand – Man of the north, from the north |
| Nancy – Grace, favor | Norris – From the north, from the north woods |
| Odetta – Wealth, fortune | Obéron – Legendary king of the fairies |
| Oralie – Golden, golden-haired | Octave – Eighth, eighth-born |
| Paméla – Honey, honey bee | Pierre-Antoine – Stone and priceless one |
| Paulette – Little Paul | Pierre-Louis – Rock and Famous warrior |
| Pénélope – Weaver, weaver of cunning | Raoul – Wolf counsel, wise wolf |
| Prudence – Caution, discretion | Raphaël – God has healed |
| Rachel – Ewe, female sheep | Raymond – Wise protector, wise guardian |
| Renee – Reborn | Russell – Little red one, red-haired |
| Rosalie – Rose | Sidney – Wide island, wide meadow |
| Roseline – Little rose | Silvestre – Of the forest, wild |
| Sandra – Defender of mankind | Terrance – Smooth, polished |
| Satin – Smooth, glossy fabric | Terrence – Smooth, Polished |
| Théodora – Gift of God, God’s gift | Théophile – Lover of God, friend of God |
| Thérèse – Summer, harvester | Thibaut – Bold people |
| Véra – Faith, true | Vadim – Ruler, judgment |
| Yasmine – Jasmine flower, fragrant flower | Yaël – Mountain goat, ibex |
| Zenna – Hospitable, friendly | Yvon – Yew wood |
Rare French Names
Whether it’s a name associated with French aristocracy or a name with a distinctively chic and luxurious vibe, rare French names are sure to make a memorable statement. These rare French names ooze luxury and class.
Female Names | Male Names |
|---|---|
| Anaise – Grace, charm | Alban – White, from Alba |
| Ariane – Very holy, silver | Aldric – Old, wise ruler |
| Augustine – Majestic, venerable | Alphonse – Noble, ready for battle |
| Aurel – Golden, golden-haired | Amadou – Praised, commendable |
| Aveline – Hazelnut, hazel tree | Amaury – Work ruler, ruler of work |
| Bérénice – Bringer of victory, victory bringer | Amour – Love, affection |
| Bernardine – Brave as a bear, bear strength | Andrée – Man, Warrior |
| Camélia – Camellia flower, perfect beauty | Aurelian – Golden, gilded |
| Candice – Pure, glowing | Avriel – God is my father, father of many |
| Christiane – Follower of Christ, Christian woman | Ciel – Sky, heaven |
| Citron – Citrus fruit, lemon | Demetre – Variant of Dimitri, follower of Demeter |
| Clemence – Merciful, gentle | Dieudonné – Given by God, God-given |
| Églantine – Wild rose, sweetbriar | Émeric – Work ruler, ruler of work |
| Elvéra – True, sincere | Évrard – Brave, strong boar |
| Eponine – Good voice, sweet sound | Gaspard – Treasurer |
| Faustine – Lucky, fortunate | Gervaise – Spear servant, servant with a spear |
| Fayette – Little fairy, small fairy | Giulian – Youthful, Downy |
| Fleurette – Little flower, small flower | Jacque – Supplanter, Holder of the heel |
| Florentine – Flowering, blooming | Jean-Luc – God is gracious and Light |
| Floriane – Blooming, flourishing | Kaylan – Narrow, Slender |
| Florine – Flower, blooming | Kilian – Church, Monastery |
| Georgine – Farmer, earthworker | Kyllian – Church, Monastery |
| Henriette – Ruler of the home, ruler of the household | Lafayette – Faithful, loyal |
| Hermine – Universal, whole | Leonello – Lion |
| Iolanthe – Violet, flower of purple color | Louka – From Lucania, Light-bringer |
| Jonquille – Jonquil flower, daffodil | Lumière – Light, illumination |
| Juliane – Youthful, downy-bearded | Lyon – Lion, lion-like |
| Liana – To climb, to twine | Macon – Stone, mason |
| Lola – Sorrows, lady of sorrows | Marcellus – Young warrior, little warrior |
| Lunette – Little moon, moon-shaped | Maximilien – Greatest, most excellent |
| Marceline – Dedicated to Mars the Roman god of war, warlike | Melchior – King, ruler |
| Marielle – Bitter, rebellious | Merle – Blackbird, thrush |
| Mariette – Bitter, rebellious | Nestor – Traveler, returner |
| Modestine – Modest, humble | Rupert – Bright fame, renowned |
| Ninon – Grace, charm | Sixte – Sixth, sixth-born |
| Octavie – Eighth, eighth-born | Tavin – Variant of Tavian meaning beloved, dear |
| Olivette – Olive, olive tree | Thayer – Brickmaker, potter |
| Ottoline – Wealthy, fortunate | Thoreau – From the village of Thoreau |
| Romilly – From the Roman settlement | Timothée – Honoring God, honored by God |
| Rosette – Little rose, rosebud | Ulisses – Variant of Ulysses meaning wrathful, hateful |
| Severine – Severe, strict | Valérian – Strong, vigorous |
| Sigourney – Daring, adventurous | Vianney – Viennese |
| Tatiana – Fairy queen, princess | Villiers – Town dweller, from the town |
| Thea – Gift from God | Younes – Variant of Younis, Jonah meaning dove |
| Valériane – Healthy, strong | Zacharie – God remembers |
More Lists:
Names of Famous French Men and Women
Gabrielle Bonheur “Coco” Chanel founded her namesake brand Chanel, an internationally renowned fashion house. She created chic and wearable designs that helped define different style eras, from the catwalk to the sidewalk. The French name Gabrielle is the feminine form of a Hebrew name meaning ‘man of God.’
Napoleon Bonaparte is one of history’s most outstanding military leaders. He proved his military prowess during the French Revolution, was a leader of the early French Republic, and served as Emperor of the French. His tactics are studied to this day. Napoleon is a French name of Italian origin meaning ‘lion of Naples.’
Claude Monet was a renowned painter credited for founding impressionism. As an impressionist artist, his works sought to depict how he perceived the colors and impact of nature. Many of his paintings are of the French countryside. The French name Claude comes from Latin and means ‘strong-willed.’
Brigitte Bardot, born in France in 1934, is a retired model, singer, and actress whose height of fame in the 1950s and 1960s cemented her as one of this century’s most significant sex symbols. She was awarded numerous accolades for her acting. The name Brigitte is the French variation of a Celtic name meaning’ strength.’
Kylian Mbappé Lottin was born in France in 1998 and played soccer for Paris Saint-Germain and the French national team. He has played in two World Cups, and his skills have earned him many professional awards. The name Kylian is of Irish origin and means ‘war.’
References
Information from The National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE) which collects, analyses, and publishes information on French baby names was used in the collection of this data. If you are interested in learning more about French names, The New York Times published an article on modern trends of French First names, as well as information regarding illegal French baby names.
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