1200+ French Names (with Meanings and Popularity)
- Morgane
Description:
Morgane is a feminine name of Welsh and Breton origin, a variant of Morgan that's particularly popular in France. It derives from the Welsh elements 'mor' meaning 'sea' and 'gan' meaning 'born,' together suggesting 'born from the sea' or 'sea-dweller.' In Arthurian legend, Morgan le Fay was a powerful enchantress, giving the name mystical associations. The addition of the final 'e' in Morgane gives the name a distinctly French flair and feminine quality compared to the more unisex Morgan. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Morgane has maintained steady popularity in France and French-speaking regions. The name balances ancient Celtic roots with a contemporary sound, offering mythological depth alongside modern appeal.
- Lionel
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"young lion"Description:
Lionel is yet another traditional boy's name entering the girls' column--at least once-- via prizewinning novelist Lionel (born Margaret Ann) Shriver.
- Helaine
Origin:
French variation of HelenDescription:
Like twins Helene and Elaine, a relic of the 1930s to 40s French Renaissance of names.
- Marcheline
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"warrior"Description:
Marcheline was the first name of Angelina Jolie's late mother, who was part French-Canadian, which Jolie and Brad Pitt used as the middle name for their twin daughter Vivienne. The name is related to the Latin Marcellus and Marcus, which come from Mars, the name of the God of War, and is often spelled Marceline. Jolie's mother's birth name was Marcia Lynne.
- Estée
Description:
Estée is a feminine name most famously associated with the cosmetics entrepreneur Estée Lauder, whose birth name was actually Josephine Esther Mentzer. The name has French origins and is a stylized form of Esther, which derives from the Persian word for 'star.' The distinctive accent mark gives the name a touch of European sophistication and elegance. Though relatively uncommon as a given name, Estée carries connotations of beauty, luxury, and entrepreneurial success due to the Lauder connection. The name has a delicate yet strong quality, with its brief two syllables ending in an elegant accent. It appeals to parents seeking a name with cosmopolitan flair and subtle sophistication, while remaining distinctive in most naming contexts.
- Mailys
Origin:
French or BretonMeaning:
"chief or prince"Description:
Another female relative of Saint Mael.
- Arianne
Origin:
French, from Latin AriadneMeaning:
"very holy one"Description:
Soft and delicate French name rarely heard here.
- Delmore
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"of the sea"Description:
An undiscovered gem with clunky, buttoned-up appeal and a literary feel thanks to poet Delmore Schwartz.
- Prewitt
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"brave little one"Description:
Common surname rarely used as a first.
- Étoile
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"star"Description:
Novel French twist on Starr or Stella.
- Chardonnay
Origin:
French, a dry white wineDescription:
If you're actually considering this as a name for your child, you must have had a glass too many. But it's an awesome name for a white cat.
- Angélique
Origin:
French variation of AngelicaDescription:
Proof that a name can be too feminine.
- Rachelle
Origin:
French variation of RachelDescription:
Elaboration of Rachel sometimes seen in France, but more rarely here.
- Baudouin
Description:
Baudouin is a masculine French name derived from the Germanic elements 'bald' meaning 'bold' and 'win' meaning 'friend' or 'protector.' Essentially the French equivalent of Baldwin, this name carries strong historical significance, particularly in Belgium where multiple kings have borne the name. The most notable was King Baudouin I who ruled Belgium from 1951 to 1993 and was deeply respected for his moral integrity and service to the nation. Outside of French-speaking regions, the name remains relatively uncommon, giving it an aristocratic and distinguished character. Pronunciation may pose challenges for non-French speakers (roughly bo-DWAN), which has limited its international usage. The name conveys strength, nobility, and cultural heritage, appealing to parents with connections to French or Belgian culture.
- Villard
Origin:
French from GermanMeaning:
"battle fortress"Description:
Creative surname choice, associated with the great French postimpressionist Edouard Villard.
- Mystique
Origin:
French word nameDescription:
Better for a perfume.
- Romaine
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"a Roman"Description:
In this country, likely to conjure up visions of leafy lettuce.
- Eléonore
Description:
Eléonore is the French form of Eleanor, a name with Greek origins meaning 'bright, shining one' or 'light.' The elegant accent over the first 'e' emphasizes its French pronunciation and adds a touch of sophistication.
- Domitille
Origin:
French feminine variation of Roman family name Domitius, LatinMeaning:
"tamed"Description:
Domitille is the French form of the ancient royal name Domitilla. Domitille is used today, and was in the French Top 500 during the 2000s. While English speakers might say it as dom-ih-till or dom-ih-teel, in French, it would be DAW-MEE-TEE. Either way, it could be an interesting way to nickname Dottie.
- 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.