French Names

Amabel is an older name than Annabel and a lot more distinctive. Amabel was a very common name in the twelfth and thirteen centuries, then was revived during the nineteenth century British fad for medieval names.
 In a short story by H.H. Munro, about Amabel, the vicar's daughter, it is said "Her name was the vicar's one extravagance."
 Amabel's shortened form Mabel overtook the mama name early on.

Amabel

Intriguing spin on Margaret or Maggie, for admirers of French surrealist Rene Magritte. 

Magritte

Magdaleine is an elegant variation of Magdalene, ultimately derived from Magdala, an ancient place name meaning 'tower' in Aramaic. The name carries profound religious significance through its association with Mary Magdalene, a prominent female follower of Jesus in the New Testament. This elaborated spelling adds a touch of French sophistication to the classic name. Magdaleine combines historical depth with feminine grace, offering a slightly uncommon alternative to more familiar forms like Madeline or Magdalena. The name suggests dignity and spiritual connection while its melodious quality creates a sense of refinement. Though not widely used, it appeals to parents drawn to names with rich historical and religious foundations.

Magdaleine

A sweet French word name and an equivalent to English Dulcie, Douce may also be elaborated into Doucette and the saintly name Douceline. Pronounced with one syllable (DOOS), some English speakers may find it too close to "doozy" or worse, douche, to use as a first name.

Douce

Magdalaine is an elegant variation of Magdalene, which derives from Magdala, an ancient town on the Sea of Galilee whose name meant 'tower' in Aramaic. The name gained significance in Christian tradition through Mary Magdalene, a follower of Jesus. This particular spelling adds a French-inspired sophistication with the 'ai' combination. Magdalaine offers a graceful alternative to the more common Magdalene or Madeline variations, maintaining the historical richness while providing a distinctive flair. Though relatively uncommon, the name carries timeless appeal with its biblical connections and melodic sound. Magdalaine projects dignity and classical femininity while the unusual spelling gives it a touch of uniqueness that sets bearers apart.

Magdalaine

Magdala is a feminine name with profound historical and biblical connections. It derives from the ancient town of Magdala on the Sea of Galilee, most famously known as the home of Mary Magdalene, an important figure in Christianity. The place name Magdala has Aramaic origins meaning "tower" or "elevated place." This gives the name a sense of strength and prominence. While never among the most popular names, Magdala has been used sporadically throughout history, particularly in religious communities. It offers a less common alternative to the more familiar Magdalene or Madeline while maintaining the rich historical and spiritual heritage.

Magdala

Dorothée is a feminine name representing the French form of Dorothy, derived from the Greek 'Dorothea' meaning 'gift of God.' This elegant variation retains the original name's spiritual significance while adding distinctly French sophistication through its accent mark and pronunciation (dor-oh-TAY). In France and French-speaking regions, Dorothée enjoyed periods of popularity, particularly in the mid-20th century. The name gained additional recognition in francophone countries through French television personality Dorothée (born Frédérique Hoschedé) who hosted popular children's programs in the 1980s and 90s. While less common today, Dorothée continues to appeal to parents seeking a name with French cultural connections, classical roots, and a graceful, feminine quality that travels well internationally.

Dorothée

Doré

Madelle is a feminine name that likely developed as a diminutive or variation of names like Madeleine or Madeline. It combines the familiar 'Mad-' prefix with a delicate '-elle' suffix, creating a name that sounds both familiar and unique. The name has French undertones, with 'elle' meaning 'she' in French, adding a touch of elegance. Madelle is quite rare, not appearing regularly in popularity charts, which makes it an uncommon choice for parents seeking something distinctive. The name has a gentle, melodic quality while maintaining a certain strength. As with many variations of traditional names, Madelle offers the comfort of familiarity while standing apart from more common alternatives.

Madelle

Charming Gallic possibility but with some obvious playground problems. 

Bichette

One of the oldest and most widely used compound names, now a bit dated but not as much so as its opposite Mary-Ann. The hyphen is optional.

 The meaning of Marie is uncertain, but theories include "drop of the sea" (from Hebrew roots mar "drop" and yam "sea"); "bitter" (from Hebrew marah "bitterness"); and "beloved" (from the Egyptian root mr).

Anne-marie

Madella is a feminine name that likely originated as a diminutive or variation of Madeline or other 'Mad-' names derived from Magdalene, which refers to Mary Magdalene in the New Testament. The suffix '-ella' adds a feminine, diminutive quality meaning 'little' or 'young' in Latin-based languages. Madella has an elegant, vintage quality reminiscent of names popular in the early 20th century. It remains quite rare in contemporary usage, appealing to parents seeking unusual vintage names with familiar roots. The name has a melodic quality with its soft consonants and alternating vowel sounds. Potential nicknames include Della, Maddie, or Ella.

Madella

Pleasant-sounding word that could morph into a unique Sunday-picnic-type name. 

Dimanche

Innovative French word name, suggesting illumination and clarity. 

Lumière

Pretty, delicate and crystal clear, with the readymade nickname of Lucy.

Lucida

Bibiane is a feminine name of French origin, derived from the Latin name Viviana, meaning 'alive' or 'full of life.' The name has roots in early Christianity through Saint Bibiana (or Viviana), a 4th-century Roman martyr. While more common in French-speaking regions, particularly Quebec and parts of Europe, Bibiane remains relatively rare in English-speaking countries. The name has a delicate, antique quality with its soft consonants and flowing syllables. Bibiane offers an elegant alternative to the more familiar Vivian or Vivienne, while maintaining the same life-affirming meaning. Its classic origins combined with its uncommon usage give it both historical depth and distinctiveness.

Bibiane

Alouette is a sweet Gallic twist in the stylish bird name genre made familiar via the charming French children's song, Alouette, gentile alouette.

Alouette

Though it's French, most Americans would pronounce it as the stone.

Agate

Ambroise is the French form of the Latin name Ambrosius, which is derived from the Greek word 'ambrosia,' meaning 'immortal' or 'divine.' This name carries connotations of longevity and heavenly association. Ambroise was popularized by several saints, most notably Saint Ambrose of Milan, a 4th-century bishop and Doctor of the Church. In France, this classic name has maintained steady, though modest, usage throughout the centuries. While Ambroise never reached tremendous popularity in English-speaking countries, it remains appreciated for its sophisticated sound and rich historical connections. The name evokes a sense of timeless elegance with its mellifluous pronunciation and distinguished heritage.

Ambroise

Lucrèce is a feminine French name derived from the Latin 'Lucretia.' It has ancient Roman roots, referring to a noblewoman in Roman history whose tragic fate influenced the establishment of the Roman Republic. The name suggests nobility, virtue, and moral strength. The French spelling with the grave accent adds a touch of elegance and cultural refinement. While never extremely common, Lucrèce has maintained a presence in French-speaking countries, particularly among families with appreciation for classical culture. The name carries literary and historical associations, as it was featured in works by Shakespeare and other notable writers.

Lucrèce

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 35)

French Names (with Meanings and Popularity)