1200+ French Names (with Meanings and Popularity)

A particularly beautiful member of the Orane/Oriana clan, Oriane is the first name of a major character in Proust's In Search Of Lost Time, the Duchesse de Guermantes.

One of the jewel names in use a hundred years ago, due for revival along with sisters Ruby and Pearl.

This French name meaning goddess is a possible Gallic import in the Celine mode.

French version of Leah, currently popular with French-speaking parents. In this spelling, it looks pleasingly like the female equivalent of Leo (or Léo), and sounds like Leia.

Particularly pretty French version of the biblical standard.

Relic of a past period of French favorites, out to pasture with Claudette and Paulette.

Patrice is a more modern-sounding and polished unisex alternative to Patricia.

A fragrant herbal and color name that could make a sensitive, distinctive choice.

A dashing French surname name most famously borne by Henry David Thoreau, an American naturalist, writer and philosopher who influenced such notable figures as Leo Tolstoy, Mahatma Gandhi, and Martin Luther King Jr. The most common modern American pronunciation is "thor-OH", with emphasis on the final syllable, although Thoreau himself pronounced it "THOR-oh".

Aurélie is an elegant feminine name of French origin, derived from the Latin name 'Aurelius,' which means 'golden' or 'gilded.' The name carries a lustrous, radiant quality through its association with gold and light. Widely used in France and French-speaking regions, Aurélie peaked in popularity there during the 1980s but has maintained steady usage. The accent mark gives the name an authentic French character, though it's sometimes simplified to Aurelie in English-speaking countries. With its soft sounds and flowing syllables, Aurélie exudes sophistication and femininity. The name offers international appeal while retaining its distinctly French identity. For those seeking a name with European flair that suggests brightness and beauty, Aurélie provides a melodious option with a rich linguistic heritage.

A spunky nickname name for parents with showbiz aspirations for their daughter.

Collette is a feminine name of French origin, serving as a variation of Nicole or Nicolette, ultimately derived from the Greek name Nikolaos, meaning 'victory of the people.' This elegant name carries a sophisticated European flair and has maintained consistent popularity throughout the decades without becoming overly common. Collette was particularly fashionable in the mid-20th century, partly inspired by the renowned French novelist and performer Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette, known simply as 'Colette.' The name evokes images of Parisian chic and artistic sensibility. With its melodic sound and cultural cachet, Collette offers a classic yet distinctive option for parents seeking a name with timeless appeal.

In the Top 25 in the unisex seventies, these days Tracy would more likely be Gracie.

Héloïse is a chic French name related to sleek, peppy classic Eloise. Both ultimately derive from the Germanic name Helewidis, which became Helewis in medieval England. In the twelfth century, the name was borne by the beloved of the French philosopher Pierre Abelard, who was considered to be one of the most learned women of the Middle Ages.

Undiscovered name of picturesque northern French port.

Nathaniel is a wonderful classic name and Nathanael, which may be an ancient Greek or Hebrew form, is appealing and has gravitas but may prove needlessly confusing in the modern world.

Fans of the classic French designer would now more fashionably choose Coco.

Briefly in the US Top 1000 in the late 19th century, Fate likely emerged as a short form for the old French name, Lafayette. In the contemporary landscape however, it may well be perceived as a word name among English speakers, akin to Destiny, Chance, Blessing, and Chosen. Around six boys are given the name Fate each year in the US, though 2023 saw it rise a little, with ten babies receiving the name.

Léandre is a masculine name of Greek origin, derived from the mythological figure Leander who swam across the Hellespont nightly to visit his beloved Hero. The name combines the Greek elements 'leon' meaning 'lion' and 'andros' meaning 'man,' suggesting strength and courage. Particularly popular in French-speaking regions and Quebec, Léandre carries a sophisticated European flair with its accent mark. The name has classical roots while maintaining a contemporary feel. Though not common in English-speaking countries, it has steady popularity in Francophone areas. Léandre offers a distinguished alternative to more common names while providing the friendly nickname Leo or Léo. Its mythological associations add depth and romantic significance.