French Names

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

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

Magritte

Mandolin may seem like an outlandish choice for a name, but since BANJO has been used as a baby name, all the instruments in the band seem to be auditioning for a place on birth certificates.  This one comes with a real name nickname, MANDY.

Mandolin

Manet is the accessible, attractive name of an Impressionist great; it could be the next Monet. 

Manet

Manette might be a fresh way to spin Mary or Marie, but popular French Manon has more grace and heft. Manet takes Manette in an artistic direction.

Manette

Marcelia is a feminine name with Latin origins, likely derived from Marcella, the feminine form of Marcellus, meaning 'dedicated to Mars' (the Roman god of war). Another possible origin is as a variant of Marcella combined with Celia, adding the meaning 'heavenly.' With its romantic, flowing sound, Marcelia has a lyrical quality reminiscent of many Romance language names. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, it has seen some usage in Latin American cultures. The name offers several nickname possibilities including Marcy, Celia, or Lia. Marcelia brings together classical roots with a distinctive, melodious quality that sets it apart from more common names.

Marcelia

Mardi is a foreign word name that sounds like a homegrown nickname.  For what?  We're not sure, but it's kinda cute, and preferable to Tuesday.

Mardi

Marjie is a diminutive form of Margaret, which derives from the Greek 'margarites' meaning 'pearl.' This sweet, informal variation emerged as a nickname before sometimes being used as a given name in its own right, particularly in the mid-20th century. Marjie has a friendly, approachable quality with its soft ending and familiar sound. It shares roots with other Margaret derivatives like Margie, Maggie, and Marge, but offers a slightly different spelling that gives it a distinctive touch. While never reaching significant popularity charts, Marjie has maintained a quiet presence, appealing to those who appreciate vintage names with an affectionate, familiar quality.

Marjie

Marjolie is a feminine name that appears to be a variant or elaboration of Marjorie, which derives from the medieval form of Margaret, meaning 'pearl.' With its French-sounding ending, Marjolie introduces a melodic quality to the traditional Marjorie. The 'jolie' element evokes the French word for 'pretty,' adding a layer of beauty to its meaning. This uncommon variation has never achieved widespread use but offers a distinctive alternative to more familiar forms. Marjolie carries the same vintage charm as Marjorie but with an added touch of international flair. The name suggests a gentle femininity while still connecting to the strong historical roots of Margaret. Marjolie would appeal to parents seeking a name that sounds familiar yet remains refreshingly uncommon.

Marjolie

A French botanical word name, Marjolaine translates to "marjoram". A minty herb that can be used in cooking, it has also been considered medicinal and was used as an antiseptic by the Greek physician, Hippocrates. The Romans considered it the herb of happiness and believed in could increase someone's lifespan, while others believe that it is a herb that helps with encountering and dealing with the unknown.
 
The name was fairly well used in its native France between the 70s and 90s, but has been out of the charts since the 2000s. This name was influential however in the creation of Marjorie, combining elements and sounds of the herb with those of Margery / Margaret.

Marjolaine

Marjo is a feminine name with multiple cultural connections. It functions as a Finnish short form of Marjatta or Marjaana (derivatives of Maria), and is also used in French as a diminutive of Marie. In both cases, the name traces back to the Hebrew name Miriam, whose meaning remains debated but may relate to 'wished-for child,' 'rebellion,' or 'sea of bitterness.' Compact and distinctive, Marjo offers a fresh alternative to more common Mary derivatives. The name is particularly appreciated in Finland, where it has a familiar, friendly quality. With its concise, modern sound and international versatility, Marjo appeals to parents seeking a simple yet uncommon name with authentic cultural roots and a contemporary feel.

Marjo

Martella is a feminine name of Latin origin, functioning as a diminutive or feminine form of Martin, which means 'dedicated to Mars' (the Roman god of war). This elegant name carries a sense of strength while maintaining a distinctly feminine quality through its melodic ending. Though relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Martella has historical usage in Italian communities and other European regions. The name possesses a timeless quality with its classical roots and euphonious sound. Despite its rarity, Martella is easily pronounced and spelled, making it accessible while remaining distinctive. For those seeking a name with historical depth that isn't overused, Martella offers an elegant alternative to more common feminine forms like Martina.

Martella

Marthe is a feminine name of Aramaic origin, representing the French form of Martha, which means 'lady' or 'mistress of the house.' This elegant variation has been particularly popular in French-speaking regions and has historical significance in Christian tradition, as Martha was a biblical figure known for her hospitality. While less common in English-speaking countries, Marthe has maintained steady usage in France and Quebec. The name carries an air of classic sophistication and timeless grace. Its pronunciation (typically 'mart' with a silent 'h') gives it a soft, refined quality that distinguishes it from the more widely used Martha. Marthe projects an image of dependability, nurturing, and quiet strength.

Marthe

Frenchified name rarely used in France. And perhaps even more rarely used in the US -- there were NO baby girls given the name on the official records of 2021.

Minette

New twist to the Maur- names, a bit cosmetic sounding. 

Maurelle

One of those old-mannish names that sounds a lot fresher for a girl. 

Maurice

Mauve is an offbeat color name whose soft and sentimental Victorian spirit is conveyed by the name. One of the newer color names like Blue, Gray and Plum that are increasingly being used as novel <a href="https://nameberry.com/list/673/middle-names">middle names</a>, Mauve has the added benefit of being similar to stylish Maeve and classic Maude.
 
Said with a strong O sound in the UK and a softer one in the US, it ultimately comes from the French word for the floral Mallow, itself from the Latin Malva. Mauve debuted in the US stats in 2024 when it was given to 6 girls.

Mauve

Maxime is a French feminine name, though it can also be used for males in some cultures. Derived from the Latin name Maximus, meaning "greatest" or "largest," it carries connotations of excellence and achievement. In France, Maxime has maintained steady popularity as a given name for both genders but is more commonly used for boys. The feminine usage tends to emphasize the elegant, sophisticated quality of French naming traditions. Outside of French-speaking regions, Maxime is less common but appreciated for its international flair and subtle strength. The name offers the friendly nickname Max while maintaining a more formal, distinctive full name. Its classic roots and modern appeal have helped Maxime remain relevant across generations without becoming overused.

Maxime

Mélanie is the French form of Melanie, derived from the Greek name Melania, meaning 'black' or 'dark.' With its elegant accent mark, Mélanie carries a distinctly French sophistication while maintaining the accessibility of its more widely used English counterpart. The name has been consistently popular in France, Quebec, and other French-speaking regions since the 1980s. Mélanie gained international recognition through figures like French singer Mélanie Laurent and various literary characters. The name evokes qualities of creativity, intelligence, and grace. The pronunciation emphasizes the second syllable (may-lah-NEE), giving it a melodic flow that distinguishes it from the English version and highlights its romantic French character.

Mélanie

Mélaine is a refined French feminine name that shares roots with Melanie, ultimately derived from the Greek 'melania' meaning 'dark' or 'black.' The addition of the accent mark gives the name its distinctive French pronunciation and elegance. In France, there was also a male Saint Mélaine who lived in the 6th century, though today the name is primarily used for girls. The name carries a delicate balance of sophistication and sweetness, with its soft consonants and flowing sound. While never extremely common even in French-speaking regions, Mélaine offers a stylish alternative to the more widely used Melanie. The name evokes qualities of grace, refinement, and subtle beauty, appealing to parents drawn to French naming traditions and melodic qualities.

Mélaine

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 57)

French Names (with Meanings and Popularity)