French Names

Peita is a feminine name with possible roots in both Greek and Maori traditions. In Greek context, it may be related to 'petra' meaning 'rock' or 'stone,' symbolizing strength and stability. In Maori usage, it could be a variant spelling of 'Peta,' the Maori form of Peter. The name has a gentle yet distinctive sound that sets it apart from more common feminine names. Peita remains relatively rare in most English-speaking countries, giving it a unique quality for parents seeking something uncommon. The name has a pleasant rhythm and modern feel while potentially carrying cultural significance. Its brevity and easy pronunciation contribute to its appeal for contemporary parents looking for something both accessible and unusual.

Peita

Perette is a delicate feminine name of French origin, representing the feminine form of Peter (Pierre in French). Derived from the Greek 'petros' meaning 'rock' or 'stone', it carries connotations of strength and steadfastness despite its gentle sound. Popular in medieval France, Perette has become quite rare in modern times, giving it a distinctive vintage charm. The name appears in historical French literature and folk tales, including as a character in La Fontaine's fables. With its subtle French elegance and two-syllable rhythm ending in the feminine '-ette' suffix, Perette offers an uncommon alternative to more widely used French names. It maintains an air of classic refinement while being virtually unique in contemporary usage.

Perette

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 Faye, May, and Rae.

Five girls were given the name Perrine last year.  Other feminine Perry or Peter alternatives are Perrin, Perry, or even Petra.

Perrine

Perpétue is a feminine French name derived from the Latin 'perpetua,' meaning 'continuous' or 'everlasting.' The name carries significant historical weight through its connection to Saint Perpetua, a Christian martyr from the 3rd century who died for her faith in Carthage and whose memoir is one of the earliest known works by a Christian woman. Despite its beautiful meaning and historical significance, Perpétue remains uncommon outside of French-speaking regions and Catholic communities. The name conveys a sense of endurance, faithfulness, and timelessness. With its elegant French pronunciation and accent mark, Perpétue has a sophisticated quality that distinguishes it from more common names.

Perpétue

One of the least appealing of the ella-ending names, especially if you check pernicious in the dictionary. 

Pernella

Pensée

Gaetane is a feminine name of French origin, derived from the Latin name Gaetanus, relating to someone from Gaeta, an ancient city in Italy. The name carries an elegant, sophisticated quality typical of classical French nomenclature. Most popular in Quebec and French-speaking regions of Canada, Gaetane enjoys modest usage in France and other Francophone countries. The name reached its peak popularity in the mid-20th century but has become less common in recent decades, giving it a vintage charm. Gaetane is pronounced with a soft 'g' and typically articulated as 'gay-TAN' or 'geh-tahn,' with regional variations. The name conveys strength and refinement while maintaining its distinctly French character.

Gaetane

French form of Chloé. A popular choice with French-speaking parents, though people elsewhere may associate it most with luxury handbags.

Chloé

Pépélope is a feminine name that appears to be a stylized variation of Penelope, incorporating French-inspired accent marks. Penelope originates from Greek mythology, where she was the faithful wife of Odysseus known for her loyalty and cleverness. The name traditionally means 'weaver' or 'duck.' This variant spelling with accents gives the classic name a unique, international flair. While extremely rare compared to the traditional Penelope, Pépélope offers parents a way to honor the mythological roots while creating a distinctive identity for their daughter. The accented version might appeal to those with French heritage or those seeking a more exotic twist on a recognizable classic, though its pronunciation may cause some confusion in primarily English-speaking contexts.

Pépélope

Perlette is a feminine name of French origin, derived from 'perle' meaning 'pearl.' It essentially translates to 'little pearl,' with the diminutive suffix '-ette' adding a delicate, endearing quality. This charming name evokes images of something precious, refined, and luminous. While never achieving mainstream popularity, Perlette has remained a distinctive choice for parents seeking something both elegant and uncommon. The name carries connotations of purity, rarity, and natural beauty, much like the gem it references. In French culture, pearls symbolize wisdom acquired through experience, giving the name an additional layer of significance beyond its aesthetic appeal.

Perlette

Perline is a feminine name with French origins, derived from the word 'perle' meaning 'pearl.' It emerged as a variation of names like Pauline and Pearl, offering a distinctive yet elegant option. The name conveys qualities of preciousness and beauty, much like its gemstone association. While not widely common in English-speaking countries, Perline has maintained a quiet presence, particularly in French-speaking regions and among families seeking a name with subtle refinement. Its gentle sound and meaningful connection to something naturally beautiful and rare make it an appealing choice for parents looking for something slightly unconventional yet classically feminine.

Perline

Perle is a delicate feminine name derived from the French word for 'pearl,' ultimately from Latin 'perla.' This gem-inspired name evokes qualities of rarity, purity, and lustrous beauty. While never extremely common, Perle has maintained steady usage in France and among French-speaking communities worldwide. The name experienced modest popularity in the early 20th century and has seen a small revival among parents seeking vintage names with natural elegance. Perle's single-syllable simplicity combined with its soft ending creates a name that feels both classic and distinctive. The name carries subtle sophistication and a timeless quality that transcends trends.

Perle

Almost completely unknown in this country: an intriguing possibility. 

Paulille

Frédérique is a feminine French name derived from the Germanic name Friedrich, meaning "peaceful ruler" or "power of peace." It serves as the female equivalent of Frédéric (Frederick). The name carries an elegant, sophisticated quality with its French pronunciation and accent marks. Frédérique has been consistently used in French-speaking regions, particularly in France, Quebec, and Belgium, though it has never been among the most common names. It reached modest popularity in the mid-20th century. The name's international appeal comes from its beautiful sound and meaningful etymology. Frédérique offers a distinctly French option that travels well across borders while maintaining its cultural authenticity. The name suggests refinement and cultural awareness, appealing to parents seeking a name with European sophistication.

Frédérique

For years there was only one Cher, and then along came the charming heroine of the movie "Clueless."  The world now officially has enough Chers in it. 

Cher

This Frenchified variation softens and prettifies the harsh original.

Armantine

This, the simplest French female version of Paul, was brought into the U. S. mix by novelist Paule Marshall, whose roots are in the West Indies. 

Paule

Pascalie is a feminine name with French origins, derived from the masculine Pascal, which comes from the Latin 'paschalis' meaning 'relating to Easter' or 'born at Passover.' The feminine suffix '-ie' gives the name a graceful, flowing quality typical of French feminine names. While relatively uncommon even in French-speaking regions, Pascalie carries connotations of spring, renewal, and spiritual significance through its connection to Easter. The name has a melodic, three-syllable rhythm that feels both elegant and approachable. Pascalie offers families a distinctive choice that balances uniqueness with comprehensible pronunciation and spelling. Like other holiday-inspired names, it subtly references important cultural and religious traditions while functioning beautifully as a personal name with a touch of French sophistication.

Pascalie

Pascasia is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from 'Pascha' meaning 'Easter' or 'Passover.' It's the feminine form of Pascasius, traditionally given to children born during the Easter season. This name carries religious significance in Christian traditions, symbolizing renewal, rebirth, and spiritual awakening. Though rare in contemporary use, Pascasia has historical precedent, particularly in Catholic countries and communities. The name has a melodious quality with its flowing syllables and soft sounds. It offers parents seeking a distinctive religious name an option with deep historical roots. Pascasia might appeal to those drawn to vintage names with clear spiritual connections and a feminine, classical sound.

Pascasia

French names include many classic names that have ranked highly in the US for its entire history. These

 include Anne and Louis, Charlotte and Charles, and Josephine and Curtis (though it may surprise you to learn that Curtis is not only French, but perennially popular!).



French names in the US Top 200 for girls include Annabelle, Charlotte, Claire, Josephine, and Sophie. For boys, 

 include Andre, Beau, Chase, Remy, and Russell. In France, popular names include Louise, Manon, Jules, and Bastien.

 attracting fresh attention in both France and beyond include, for girls, Capucine, Darcy, Delphine, Elodie, Maribel, Oceane, Ottilie, Quincy, Romilly, and Sylvie. For boys, Dion, Emilien, Florent, Julius, Lionel, Montague, Pom, and Quincy.

Here are all the French names for girls and boys on Nameberry, ordered by their current popularity with our visitors.

French names including meaning and popularity for girls and boys such as Beau, Elodie, Sylvie, including baby names popular in France and names of French origin for boys and girls.. (Page 27)

French Names (with Meanings and Popularity)