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1200+ French Names (with Meanings and Popularity)

  1. Abella

    • Origin:

      French, meaning 'breath'

    • Description:

      A pretty name heard in the Louisiana Cajun community, Abella would fit right in with all the other, more familiar, bella names.
  2. Reinette

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "little queen"

    • Description:

      Reinette was the childhood nickname of Madame La Pompadour, perhaps a cute short form for Regina or Reina but hardly worthy of the full name on the birth certificate today.
  3. Octavie

    • Description:

      Octavie is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from the Roman name Octavius, meaning 'eighth' or 'born eighth.' It's the feminine form of Octave, particularly used in French-speaking regions. This elegant name carries a classical, sophisticated air with its French styling and historical connections. In Roman times, the name indicated the eighth child or a child born in the eighth month. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Octavie has maintained modest usage in France and other Francophone areas. The name offers a distinctive choice with a melodious quality and refined character. Its rarity makes it stand out, while its classical roots give it substance and historical depth.
  4. Chaney

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "oak tree"

    • Description:

      An appealing surname-name that sounds perfectly feminine, unless you consider the association to Vice President Dick.
  5. Ésaïe

    • Origin:

      French, Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "salvation of the lord"

    • Description:

      French variant of Isaiah
  6. Angélique

    • Origin:

      French variation of Angelica

    • Description:

      Proof that a name can be too feminine.
  7. Théophile

    • Description:

      Théophile is a masculine French name derived from Greek elements meaning 'friend of God' or 'beloved by God.' It shares its etymology with the English name Theophilus but maintains its distinctive French spelling and pronunciation. Popular in France since the Middle Ages, the name has literary associations through notable bearers like French poet and novelist Théophile Gautier. While less common today than in previous generations, it retains an air of classical elegance and intellectual sophistication. The name has religious connotations appreciated by some families, while others may be drawn to its cultural heritage and refined sound. Though relatively uncommon outside French-speaking regions, Théophile offers international appeal while maintaining its authentic French character.
  8. Jacquie

    • Description:

      Jacquie is a feminine name that serves as a diminutive or variation of Jacqueline, which is the French feminine form of Jacques (James). With French origins, the name ultimately derives from Hebrew, meaning 'supplanter.' This particular spelling with 'ie' ending gives it a friendly, approachable quality compared to more formal versions. Jacquie peaked in popularity during the mid-20th century but has since become less common. The name carries a certain playful elegance and vintage charm. It strikes a balance between familiarity and distinctiveness, as most people recognize it while encountering it relatively infrequently. The nickname-style spelling often reflects a casual, warm personality.
  9. Desi

    • Origin:

      Short form of Desiree, French

    • Meaning:

      "desired"

    • Description:

      Desi makes Desiree a lot cuter and more boyish.
  10. Satin

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "smooth, shiny"

    • Description:

      Sensuous to a fault.
  11. Nouvel

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "new"

    • Description:

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

    • Origin:

      French occupational name

    • Meaning:

      "ironworker"

    • Description:

      Surname of a fifteenth-century saint and a twenty-first-century quarterback, Brett Favre.
  13. 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.

  14. Barraud

    • Description:

      Barraud is a masculine name with French origins, functioning primarily as a surname before occasionally being adopted as a given name. It derives from ancient Germanic elements, possibly related to 'bern' (bear) combined with 'wald' (rule), or from a local place name. The name traveled to England with the Norman Conquest and established itself as a distinguished family name. As a first name, Barraud is exceedingly rare, appealing to parents seeking a distinctive name with aristocratic overtones. Its uncommon status gives it a sophisticated and distinguished quality, making it stand out in any setting while maintaining links to European heritage.
  15. Colombain

    • Description:

      Colombain is a rare masculine name of French origin, derived from the Latin 'columba' meaning 'dove'. Historically associated with peace and gentleness, the name shares roots with the more familiar Columban or Columbanus, a significant Irish saint who founded several monasteries across Europe in the 6th century. Colombain carries connotations of peace, spirituality, and wisdom. Despite its beautiful meaning and historical connections, it remains uncommon even in French-speaking regions. The name offers a distinctive choice for parents drawn to rare names with historical depth and positive symbolism, though its unusual nature might require occasional explanation in modern contexts.

  16. Gaelle

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "from Gaul"
  17. Odalis

    • Origin:

      French word Odalisque

    • Meaning:

      "chambermaid; concubine"

    • Description:

      As with the more popular variant Odalys, this is a name which should be avoided due to its connection to Ottoman Empire harems and concubines. May we suggest Odette, Odelie, Odessa or Lyssa as better alternatives?
  18. Germain

    • Origin:

      French variation of Germanus

    • Meaning:

      "from Germany"

    • Description:

      Saint Germain, the intellectual center of Paris, lends the name a creative aura. But most Americans would say jer-mayn. The Latin Germanus may mean sprout or bud, or brother.
  19. Lionnel

    • Description:

      Lionnel is a masculine name that serves as a variant spelling of Lionel, which derives from the Old French name 'Leonel,' meaning 'young lion.' The double 'n' adds a distinctive touch while maintaining the name's strong, noble character. Historically, Lionel gained prominence through Arthurian legend, where Sir Lionel was a Knight of the Round Table, lending the name an air of chivalry and heroism. The name evokes qualities of strength, courage, and leadership through its leonine associations. Though Lionnel with this specific spelling is uncommon, the traditional Lionel has maintained steady, modest usage throughout the decades. The name carries a classic dignity that transcends trends, making it appealing to parents seeking something both traditional and distinctive.
  20. Perlette

    • Description:

      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.