270+ French Boy Names

  1. Janvier
    • Description:

      Janvier is a masculine French name derived directly from the Latin 'Januarius,' meaning 'January' or 'relating to Janus.' Janus was the Roman god of doorways, transitions, beginnings, and endings, depicted with two faces looking to the past and future. Traditionally, Janvier was often given to boys born in January, following a naming pattern common in many cultures of naming children after their birth month or season. The name has maintained steady use in French-speaking regions including France, Canada, Haiti, and various African countries. While not extremely common, Janvier has a sophisticated, distinctive quality with its French pronunciation (zhahn-vee-AY). The name carries connotations of new beginnings and fresh starts, reflecting its association with the first month of the year.

  2. Eadgar
    • Description:

      Eadgar is a masculine name with Anglo-Saxon roots, representing an older form of the more familiar Edgar. Derived from Old English elements 'ead' meaning 'wealth, fortune' and 'gar' meaning 'spear,' the name literally translates to 'wealthy spearman' or 'prosperous warrior.' This powerful historical name was borne by a notable 10th-century English king, Edgar the Peaceful. While the modernized Edgar remains in use, Eadgar is quite rare, offering an authentic medieval alternative with a distinctive pronunciation. The name carries connotations of strength, prosperity, and noble heritage, appealing to parents interested in names with ancient Germanic origins and historical significance.

  3. Beauchamp
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "the beautiful field"
    • Description:

      Pronounced Beecham, but still too fancy and fey. Likewise Beaufort (beautiful fort), Beaufoy (beautiful beech tree), and Beaumont (beautiful mountain).
  4. Justis
    • Description:

      Justis is a masculine name representing an alternative spelling of Justice, which derives from Latin 'justitia' meaning 'righteousness' or 'equity.' This spelling variation emerged primarily in the late 20th century as parents sought distinctive twists on virtue names. While the concept of justice has ancient roots as a virtue, its use as a personal name became more common during the Puritan era and has seen a revival in modern times. The name carries strong connotations of fairness, moral integrity, and ethical strength. Justis offers a slightly more unique presentation than the standard spelling while maintaining the powerful meaning. Though not among the most common names, it appeals to parents drawn to names with clear virtuous associations and contemporary styling.
  5. Sabinu
    • Description:

      Sabinu is a masculine name likely derived from the Latin name 'Sabinus,' referring to a member of the Sabine people, an ancient Italian tribe. This uncommon name appears to be a variant found in certain Mediterranean or possibly African cultural contexts, though its specific regional usage is limited. Sabinu has a melodic quality with its balanced syllables and vowel ending, characteristic of names from Romance language regions. It remains extremely rare in global naming statistics, making it a highly distinctive choice. The name carries echoes of ancient Roman history through its etymological connection to the Sabines, known for their role in early Roman legends including the famous episode of the 'Rape of the Sabine Women.'

  6. Page
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "page, attendant"
    • Description:

      Strictly for the girls.
  7. Franchot
    • Origin:

      French variation of Francis
    • Description:

      Old-time movie actor Franchot Tone (born Stanislas -- Franchot was his mother's maiden name) earned this name its own place in the book. An interesting, provocative choice.
  8. Denes
    • Description:

      Denes is a Hungarian masculine name equivalent to Dennis or Dionysius, ultimately derived from the Greek god Dionysus, associated with wine, fertility, and ritual madness. Pronounced DEH-nesh in its native Hungarian, this concise name carries cultural significance in Central Europe while remaining accessible to English speakers. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, Denes has consistent usage in Hungary and among Hungarian diaspora communities. The name combines historical depth with a modern, clean simplicity in its spelling. For parents seeking a name with European heritage that travels well across borders, Denes offers a distinctive yet pronounceable option with connections to both classical mythology and Christian tradition through its association with Saint Denis.
  9. Cyrille
    • Origin:

      French from Latin
    • Meaning:

      "lordly"
    • Description:

      A unisex French name, but you may want to simplify your son's life if you're English speakers by going with Cyril. It's an unusual enough name that it doesn't need further complications of spelling and pronunciation.
  10. Sigfroi
    • Description:

      Sigfroi is an elegant masculine name with ancient Germanic roots, representing the French form of Siegfried. The name combines the elements 'sieg' (victory) and 'fried' (peace), creating the powerful meaning of 'victorious peace.' Sigfroi carries illustrious mythological and literary connections through the legendary hero Siegfried from Germanic and Norse sagas, later immortalized in Wagner's opera cycle 'Der Ring des Nibelungen.' Despite its distinguished heritage, Sigfroi remains exceptionally rare, primarily found in French-speaking regions with Germanic influences. The name projects nobility and heroic qualities while offering an uncommon alternative to the more familiar German Siegfried. Its distinctive sound and spelling provide a unique option for parents drawn to names with historical depth and mythological significance.

  11. Gautier
    • Origin:

      French variation of Walter
    • Meaning:

      "ruler of an army"
    • Description:

      Often spelled Gauthier, this could make a distinctive way to honor Grandpa Walter, but first syllable pronounced 'goat' might be a problem.
  12. Zachalie
    • Origin:

      French variation of Zachary
    • Description:

      This is one you will get tired of explaining.
  13. Verrill
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "honest"
    • Description:

      Feminine, à la Beryl and Merrill.
  14. Grégoire
    • Description:

      Grégoire is the French form of Gregory, a name with ancient Greek origins derived from "gregorein," meaning "watchful" or "vigilant." The name carries a distinguished heritage, with numerous important historical figures including many popes and saints bearing variations of this name. The French spelling with the acute accent gives the name a sophisticated, continental flair. Grégoire is moderately common in French-speaking regions but remains distinctive elsewhere. The name has a refined, intellectual quality with its smooth sound and elegant pronunciation (greh-GWAHR). Parents might choose Grégoire for its cosmopolitan character, cultural richness, and the subtle blend of strength and sophistication it conveys. The name offers versatility across languages while maintaining its distinctly French character.

  15. Gay
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "joyful"
    • Description:

      The meaning of this word flipped from "cheerful" to "homosexual" during the twentieth century, and it's now almost certainly too loaded to sit comfortably as a baby name. Which is a shame as sound-wise it's very appealing, just a short step away from Gray, Gale and Guy.
  16. Chréstien
    • Description:

      Chréstien is a masculine name of French origin, derived from the Latin 'Christianus,' meaning 'follower of Christ.' This particular spelling with the accent mark represents a traditional French orthography. The name gained some recognition through Chrétien de Troyes, the famous 12th-century French poet known for his Arthurian romances who helped shape the literary traditions of courtly love. Despite its historical significance, Chréstien remains quite rare as a given name today, even in French-speaking regions. The name carries cultural and religious connotations, potentially appealing to parents interested in French heritage or medieval literature. Its pronunciation (kray-TYEN) might present challenges in non-French speaking environments.
  17. Danton
    • Origin:

      French variation of Dante
    • Description:

      Has the two-syllable sound so popular for boys, though adding an apostrophe -- and turning it into D'Anton -- changes the name entirely.
  18. Benôit
    • Description:

      Benôit is a French variant of Benedict, featuring the distinctive circumflex accent that adds a touch of Gallic sophistication. Derived from the Latin name Benedictus, meaning "blessed," this name carries centuries of cultural and religious significance. While less common than the standard French spelling Benoît, this slightly altered version maintains the same pronunciation and cultural associations. In French-speaking regions, particularly Quebec and parts of Europe, variations of this name maintain moderate popularity. The name evokes images of refinement and carries connections to numerous saints and notable figures throughout history, including famous writers and artists of French heritage.
  19. Érasme
    • Description:

      Érasme is the French form of Erasmus, a name with Greek origins meaning 'beloved' or 'desired.' This distinguished name is most famously associated with Desiderius Erasmus, the influential Dutch Renaissance humanist, Catholic priest, and theologian. The French variant maintains the scholarly and intellectual associations of its Latin counterpart while adding a touch of Gallic elegance. The accent over the 'E' gives the name a distinctively French pronunciation and appearance. While never extremely common, Érasme has maintained a presence in French-speaking regions, particularly among families valuing classical education and humanist traditions. The name conveys wisdom and learning, making it an appealing choice for parents drawn to names with intellectual heritage. Despite its historical significance, Érasme remains relatively uncommon in contemporary usage.

  20. Jordon
    • Description:

      Jordon is a masculine name that represents a variant spelling of Jordan, which derives from the Hebrew name 'Yarden,' referring to the Jordan River in the Middle East. The river holds significant religious importance in Christianity as the site where Jesus was baptized. As a personal name, Jordon gained popularity in English-speaking countries during the late 20th century. This alternative spelling with an 'o' rather than an 'a' offers a subtle distinction while maintaining the name's recognized sound and heritage. Jordon peaked in usage in the 1990s in the United States but remains a steady choice for parents seeking a name with biblical connections that still sounds contemporary. The name conveys strength and has a modern, masculine feel.