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French Girl Names (with Meanings & Popularity)

  1. Yolande

    • Description:

      Yolande is a feminine name of medieval French origin derived from the Germanic elements 'yol' meaning 'viking' or 'valiant' and 'lande' meaning 'land' or 'territory'. It was introduced to England after the Norman Conquest and gained popularity throughout medieval Europe. The name has royal connections, having been borne by several medieval queens and noblewomen, including Yolande of Aragon in the 15th century. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Yolande has maintained a consistent presence, appreciated for its elegant, vintage sound and distinctive character. Alternative forms include Yolanda, Iolanthe, and Violante, which evolved in different European languages.
  2. Elize

    • Description:

      Elize is a feminine name that is a variant of Elizabeth, which has Hebrew origins meaning 'God is my oath' or 'pledged to God.' This simplified form offers a modern, streamlined alternative to the classic Elizabeth while maintaining its elegant essence. Popular in various European countries, particularly in the Netherlands and South Africa, Elize combines sophistication with approachability. The name gained moderate popularity in the late 20th century and continues to appeal to parents seeking a name that feels both traditional and contemporary. Its concise form and pleasing sound make it distinctive without being complicated, offering a perfect balance between familiarity and uniqueness.
  3. Gilberte

    • Origin:

      French, feminine variation of Gilbert

    • Description:

      You might be able to make this work if you pronounce it the sophisticated French way: zhil-bare.
  4. France

    • Origin:

      Place-name

    • Description:

      This geographic name has lots of Gallic elan. France Nuyen is a French-Vietnamese actress who starred in the Broadway hit The World of Suzie Wong.
  5. Bernelle

    • Description:

      Bernelle is a feminine name that appears to be a decorative elaboration of Bernie or Bernadette, names ultimately derived from Germanic roots meaning 'brave as a bear.' The addition of the feminine '-elle' suffix gives it a French-inspired flair and elegant quality. Bernelle has never been widely used, remaining a rare choice throughout recorded naming history. This scarcity gives it a distinctive charm for those seeking something truly uncommon. The name balances strength (from its Germanic origins) with grace (through its French-sounding ending). Those named Bernelle likely experience having a name that stands out while still being relatively easy to pronounce and understand. The name might appeal to parents looking to honor a relative named Bernard or Bernadette while creating something more distinctly feminine.

  6. Darrell

    • Origin:

      English from Norman French

    • Meaning:

      "dear one, beloved"

    • Description:

      Once exclusively male name, Daryl Hannah made the Darrell spelling just as appropriate for girls -- and maybe even more feminine than masculine these days.
  7. Ermentrude

    • Origin:

      French version of Germanic Ermendrud

    • Meaning:

      "universal strength"

    • Description:

      Ermentrude was the name of two medieval queens of France. Despite these distinguished beginnings, this antique name is unlikely to catch on with contemporary parents, perhaps because the first syllable may sound unattractive to the modern ear and the last two syllables are the equivalent of intrude. Then there's that rude final syllable. English variant Ermintrude is equally unlikely to find favor.
  8. Antinea

    • Origin:

      French after the Greek name for the Queen of Atlantis

    • Description:

      In Pierre Benoit's novel, Antinea is a beautiful and charming queen with a hideous secret: She has a cave wall with 120 niches carved into it, one for each of her lovers. Only 53 have been filled; when all 120 have been filled, Antinea will sit atop a throne in the centre of the cave and rest forever.
  9. Zaidee

    • Description:

      Zaidee is a feminine name with multiple possible origins, most likely derived from the Arabic name Zaida meaning 'growth' or 'prosperity.' It may also be a variant spelling of Sadie, which originated as a diminutive of Sarah (meaning 'princess' in Hebrew). The name has a vintage charm, having enjoyed modest popularity in the Victorian era alongside other names ending with the diminutive '-ee' sound. Zaidee's cross-cultural roots give it versatility, while its relatively uncommon status makes it distinctive. The initial 'Z' adds a touch of vibrancy and uniqueness to the name. In contemporary usage, Zaidee offers parents a name that feels both familiar and fresh, with a lively sound and positive connotations of abundance.
  10. Flavie

    • Origin:

      French variation of Flavia

    • Meaning:

      "golden, blond"

    • Description:

      That extra a adds a world of grace to this name.
  11. Renae

    • Origin:

      Variation of Renee

    • Meaning:

      "reborn"

    • Description:

      This spelling makes a dated name slighly more modern.
  12. Sybille

    • Description:

      Sybille is a feminine name of Greek origin, representing a French and German variation of Sibyl. In ancient Greece, sibyls were women believed to possess prophetic powers and served as oracles. The name carries connotations of wisdom, foresight, and mysterious knowledge. This continental European spelling gives the name an elegant, sophisticated quality compared to the more anglicized Sibyl or Sybil. Popular in French-speaking regions and Germany, Sybille combines ancient mystique with refined European charm. The name experienced modest popularity throughout the 20th century but remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it an intriguing choice for parents seeking a name with classical roots and international appeal.
  13. Axelle

    • Origin:

      French feminine form of Axel

    • Meaning:

      "father of peace"

    • Description:

      Putting the emphasis on the "elle" softens a name that seems at once futuristic and medieval.
  14. Noel

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "Christmas"

    • Description:

      Noel, the French word for Christmas has been given to both boys and girls born on that holiday since the Middle Ages. For girls it's often spelled Noelle.
  15. Nouvel

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "new"

    • Description:

      Shot to fame as the middle name of Brangelina's daughter Shiloh Nouvel, after French architect Jean Nouvel.
  16. Sarette

    • Description:

      Sarette is an uncommon feminine name with likely French origins, possibly functioning as a diminutive form of Sara/Sarah (Hebrew for 'princess') with the French diminutive suffix '-ette,' meaning 'little Sara.' Alternatively, it could relate to the French word 'soirée' meaning 'evening' or 'party.' The name has a delicate, refined quality typical of French-influenced names. While rare in mainstream usage, Sarette occasionally appears in French-speaking regions and among families seeking distinctive names with European flair. The name's soft consonants and flowing quality give it an elegant, feminine sound. Sarette might appeal to parents looking for something uncommon but with familiar elements, providing the benefit of uniqueness while maintaining some connection to the more traditional Sarah family of names.
  17. Elinore

    • Description:

      Elinore is a feminine name that represents a variation of Eleanor, a name with Greek origins meaning 'bright, shining one' or 'light.' This spelling variant maintains the elegant, classic feel of Eleanor while offering a distinctive touch with the ending 'e.' Eleanor has been borne by numerous notable women throughout history, including Eleanor of Aquitaine and Eleanor Roosevelt. While less common than the standard spelling, Elinore carries the same sophisticated, timeless quality with a slightly more uncommon presentation. The name evokes images of dignity, intelligence, and grace, making it appealing to parents drawn to classic names with historical depth and enduring appeal.

  18. Muguet

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "lily"

    • Description:

      One of the few French words/names not attractive to the American ear. It's pronounced moo-gay, not a winner on either syllable. Alternatives: Liliane, Lily, Lilou, Manon.
  19. Zenna

    • Description:

      Zenna is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be derived from the Greek name Xenia, meaning "hospitable" or "welcoming to strangers," or it could be a variation of Zena, which comes from the Greek word "zenos" meaning "of Zeus." Some also connect it to the Arabic name Zaina, meaning "beautiful" or "good." Zenna has a distinctly ethereal quality with its uncommon 'Z' beginning and flowing sound. Though never widely popular, the name saw modest usage in the early 20th century and has experienced small revivals among parents seeking distinctive yet melodic names. Its rarity gives it an exotic appeal while still being relatively straightforward to pronounce and spell.

  20. Eugénie

    • Description:

      Eugénie is the French feminine form of Eugene, derived from the Greek name Eugenios meaning "well-born" or "noble." With its elegant accent mark, this name carries an air of sophistication and historical significance. It gained prominence through Empress Eugénie, the wife of Napoleon III who influenced fashion and culture in 19th-century France. The name has remained more popular in French-speaking regions than in English-speaking countries, where it's considered rare and distinctive. Eugénie offers a delicate yet strong sound with its soft 'g' and feminine ending. For parents drawn to names with European flair and classical roots, Eugénie provides an uncommon choice that combines refinement with historical depth.