​
​
Advanced Search

1200+ French Names (with Meanings and Popularity)

  1. Arnoux

    • Description:

      Arnoux is a masculine name of French origin, derived from the Germanic name 'Arnold,' which combines elements meaning 'eagle' and 'power.' This distinctive variation maintains the noble connotations of its root name while offering a unique French flair with its unusual ending. Though rare in English-speaking countries, Arnoux has historical significance in France and French-speaking regions. The name carries an aristocratic quality and projects strength and dignity. While not commonly found in contemporary naming statistics, Arnoux might appeal to parents seeking a distinctive name with historical roots and European sophistication.
  2. Claudie

    • Origin:

      French feminine variation of Claude

    • Description:

      Attractive form still très Parisienne.
  3. Fanchon

    • Origin:

      French variation of Frances

    • Meaning:

      "from France; free man"

    • Description:

      Fanchon is a sweet and affectionate Gallic choice.
  4. Justis

    • Description:

      Justis is a masculine name representing an alternative spelling of Justice, which derives from Latin 'justitia' meaning 'righteousness' or 'equity.' This spelling variation emerged primarily in the late 20th century as parents sought distinctive twists on virtue names. While the concept of justice has ancient roots as a virtue, its use as a personal name became more common during the Puritan era and has seen a revival in modern times. The name carries strong connotations of fairness, moral integrity, and ethical strength. Justis offers a slightly more unique presentation than the standard spelling while maintaining the powerful meaning. Though not among the most common names, it appeals to parents drawn to names with clear virtuous associations and contemporary styling.
  5. Robinet

    • Origin:

      French diminutive of Robin, English

    • Meaning:

      "bright fame"
  6. Barbeau

    • Origin:

      French occupational name

    • Meaning:

      "fisherman"

    • Description:

      How to spruce up Fisher or Beau? This French surname-name might be an option for a parent unafraid of the unusual. The name derives from Barbel, a type of fish, which is how it became a surname for some fishermen.
  7. Érasme

    • Description:

      Érasme is the French form of Erasmus, a name with Greek origins meaning 'beloved' or 'desired.' This distinguished name is most famously associated with Desiderius Erasmus, the influential Dutch Renaissance humanist, Catholic priest, and theologian. The French variant maintains the scholarly and intellectual associations of its Latin counterpart while adding a touch of Gallic elegance. The accent over the 'E' gives the name a distinctively French pronunciation and appearance. While never extremely common, Érasme has maintained a presence in French-speaking regions, particularly among families valuing classical education and humanist traditions. The name conveys wisdom and learning, making it an appealing choice for parents drawn to names with intellectual heritage. Despite its historical significance, Érasme remains relatively uncommon in contemporary usage.

  8. Paladin

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "of the palace"

    • Description:

      This title of honor given to Charlemagne's twelve best knights would be prized as a name by most sword-loving little boys.
  9. Sauveur

    • Description:

      Sauveur is a masculine French name derived from the Latin "salvator," meaning "savior" or "rescuer." This name carries profound religious significance in Christian contexts, where it directly references Jesus Christ as the Savior. In France, the name has historical usage particularly in Catholic families. Sauveur is especially associated with Corsica, where Saint Sauveur has been venerated. The name combines spiritual depth with a certain melodic elegance characteristic of French naming traditions. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, it maintains a modest presence in Francophone regions. Sauveur offers a name that balances unique qualities with deep historical roots, appealing to parents seeking a name with both distinctive sound and meaningful etymology.
  10. Laure

    • Origin:

      French form of Laura, English from Latin

    • Meaning:

      "from Laurentum or bay laurel"

    • Description:

      Laure is a feminine French name derived from the Latin 'laurus,' meaning 'laurel tree' - a symbol of victory and honor in ancient times. It functions as both a standalone name and the French form of Laura. Elegant and understated, Laure has maintained consistent usage in France and French-speaking regions while remaining relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries.
  11. Villard

    • Origin:

      French from German

    • Meaning:

      "battle fortress"

    • Description:

      Creative surname choice, associated with the great French postimpressionist Edouard Villard.
  12. Claudian

    • Description:

      Claudian is a masculine name with ancient Roman roots, derived from the Latin name Claudius, meaning 'lame' or 'limping' - though this original meaning has long been divorced from the name's perception. Historically significant, the name recalls Claudian (Claudius Claudianus), a celebrated Latin poet who lived in the late 4th and early 5th centuries. The name carries a scholarly, classical air that evokes the grandeur of ancient Rome. While uncommon in modern usage, Claudian offers a distinguished alternative to the more familiar Claude or Claudio. Its literary and historical associations give it intellectual gravitas, potentially appealing to parents with an appreciation for classical culture or literature.
  13. Perpétue

    • Description:

      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.
  14. Hebert

    • Description:

      Hebert is a masculine name with Germanic origins, functioning primarily as a surname that has occasionally transitioned to first-name usage. It represents a variant spelling of Herbert, which combines the elements 'hari' (army) and 'berht' (bright or famous), conveying the meaning 'bright warrior' or 'illustrious soldier.' Particularly common in French-speaking regions, especially among Cajun communities in Louisiana, Hebert maintains its traditional pronunciation (often as 'A-bear' rather than 'HE-bert'). While relatively uncommon as a first name in most English-speaking countries, it carries a dignified, classic quality that appeals to parents seeking a distinctive name with historical roots and familial connections.
  15. Séraphin

    • Origin:

      French from Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "ardent; fiery"

    • Description:

      The English name pool is lacking a male equivalent to Seraphina, but this angelic boy name is occasionally used in France.
  16. Jereme

    • Description:

      Jereme is a masculine name representing a variant spelling of Jeremy, which ultimately derives from the Hebrew name Jeremiah (Yirmeyahu), meaning 'God will uplift' or 'appointed by God.' This alternative spelling gives the classic name a distinctive touch while maintaining its biblical connections. Jereme gained modest popularity in the United States during the late 20th century as parents sought unique variations of traditional names. The pronunciation remains identical to Jeremy (JER-ə-mee), though some may emphasize the second syllable slightly differently. While less common than the standard spelling, Jereme offers the familiarity of a recognized name with a modern twist that sets it apart in written form.
  17. Qué

    • Description:

      Qué is an uncommon masculine name that appears to be derived from the Spanish word "qué," meaning "what." As a name, it may have emerged as a modern, unique choice or possibly as a shortened form of a longer name. The pronunciation would likely follow Spanish language rules (keh). Due to its rarity, Qué doesn't appear in most traditional name databases or popularity rankings. Parents might choose this distinctive name for its brevity, simplicity in spelling, or its Spanish language connections. Cross-culturally, its interrogative meaning in Spanish might create interesting conversations about the name's origin and selection.
  18. Bastienne

    • Origin:

      Variation of Sebastienne, French

    • Meaning:

      "person from Sebastia"

    • Description:

      Rare French option for girls, but feels familiar thanks to the popularity of Sebastian.
  19. Germaine

    • Origin:

      French from Latin

    • Meaning:

      "from Germany"

    • Description:

      This French feminine version of Germain is a unisex choice in the U.S., also spelled Jermaine, Jemaine, and Germain. Rooted in the ancient Latin Germanus, which may mean sprout or brother, it's no longer a fashionable choice in any version.
  20. Vachel

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "one who raises cows"

    • Description:

      This is a French occupational namename brought to the fore by poet Vachel Lindsay, born Nicholas Vachel (Vachel being his father's first name), considered the founder of modern poetry intended to be sung or chanted. and also author of the first book of film criticism in 1915.