French Girl Names (with Meanings & Popularity)
- Agate
Origin:
French, a semiprecious stone, or variation of AgathaDescription:
Though it's French, most Americans would pronounce it as the stone.
- Clarette
Description:
Clarette is a delicate feminine name derived from the Latin word "clarus," meaning "clear," "bright," or "famous." It can be considered a diminutive form of Clare or Clara, with the French-inspired "-ette" suffix adding a touch of elegance and refinement. Though uncommon in most English-speaking countries, Clarette carries a vintage charm that evokes images of sophistication and grace. The name also bears resemblance to claret, the deep red wine, potentially adding associations with richness and depth. Clarette might appeal to parents seeking a name with classic roots but a distinctive, somewhat rarified quality that sets their daughter apart.
- Cantrelle
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"song"Description:
Vocal name seldom heard, with most elle-ending names these days dropped in favor of the more straightforward Elle and Ella.
- Monet
Origin:
French artist name, from diminutive of SimonDescription:
A new favorite of the bohemian set, brought to light by actress Monet Mazur, daughter of the artist who designed the Rolling Stones' mouth logo.
- Claudie
Origin:
French feminine variation of ClaudeDescription:
Attractive form still très Parisienne.
- Laure
Origin:
French form of Laura, English from LatinMeaning:
"from Laurentum or bay laurel"Description:
Laure is a feminine French name derived from the Latin 'laurus,' meaning 'laurel tree' - a symbol of victory and honor in ancient times. It functions as both a standalone name and the French form of Laura. Elegant and understated, Laure has maintained consistent usage in France and French-speaking regions while remaining relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries.
- Frostine
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"freezing"Description:
Frostine, best known in the U.S. as the name of the Candyland queen, is newly fashionable in France and is certainly a choice that any little girl the world over would love. Fanciful, if over-the-top, but a perfect name for a winter baby girl.
- Ivonne
Origin:
French variation of YvonneDescription:
The I freshens up this name.
- Danette
Description:
Danette is a feminine name of French origin, functioning as a diminutive form of Dana or Danielle, which themselves derive from the masculine Daniel, meaning "God is my judge" in Hebrew. Popular primarily during the 1950s and 1960s in the United States, Danette exemplifies the trend of creating feminine names by adding the French-inspired suffix "-ette" to create a delicate, feminine variation. The name has a vintage charm that evokes mid-century aesthetics. While its popularity has declined since its peak, Danette maintains appeal for those drawn to retro names or seeking to honor relatives from that era. The name carries a gentle sophistication with its French styling while maintaining familiar roots.
- Loire
Origin:
French river and region nameDescription:
The lovely sound and image of the French river and lush valley would make this a most distinctive and captivating choice. Pronunciation: low-ahr.
- Bleu
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"blue"Description:
The middle name of the Travoltas' Ella is used twice as often -- 36 to 18 babies in the US last year -- for boys as for girls, leaning even more to the male side than the traditional Blue.
- Mailys
Origin:
French or BretonMeaning:
"chief or prince"Description:
Another female relative of Saint Mael.
- Janvier
Origin:
French word nameMeaning:
"January"Description:
Used in France as a male name, this would make an appealing and unusual choice, as would two other Gallic month names, Avril and Mai.
- Pierrette
Origin:
Feminine form of Pierre, French version of PeterMeaning:
"rock"Description:
Pierrette is the French feminine form of Peter or Pierre, an antiquated if charming feminization in the style of Albertine.
- Madelaine
Origin:
French variation of MadeleineMeaning:
"high tower"Description:
This spelling gives the name favorite an Elaine spin.
- Vedette
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"star, leading actor"Description:
Translating to "star", but used to refer to the leading female artist in a cabaret show, for French speakers, this would be like naming your child "Showgirl".
- Sidony
Origin:
Spelling variation of SidonieDescription:
Sidony and its mother name Sidonie are unusual and attractive French girls' names, with a fresher feel than the fading Sydney.
- Michèle
Description:
Michèle is the French feminine form of Michael, derived from the Hebrew name Mikha'el, meaning 'who is like God?' The distinctive accent over the 'e' (accent grave) indicates the French pronunciation (mee-SHELL), differentiating it from the masculine Michel. This elegant variation has been popular in French-speaking regions for generations, while also finding favor internationally among those appreciating its sophistication and European flair. Michèle enjoyed particular popularity in the mid-20th century but remains a timeless choice that bridges cultures. Notable bearers include French actress Michèle Morgan and American author Michèle Roberts. The name conveys refinement and cultural awareness while maintaining accessibility. Its biblical roots provide historical depth, while its French styling gives it a touch of cosmopolitan elegance, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with both substance and style.
- Orane
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"rising"Description:
Oriana's not-quite-as-pretty French cousin.
- Rene
Origin:
Variation of ReneeMeaning:
"reborn"Description:
This name is hanging on as Renee, thanks to Ms. Zellweger, and in newer forms Renae and Renny.
