French Names

This, the simplest French female version of Paul, was brought into the U. S. mix by novelist Paule Marshall, whose roots are in the West Indies. 

Paule

Almost completely unknown in this country: an intriguing possibility. 

Paulille

Perle is a delicate feminine name derived from the French word for 'pearl,' ultimately from Latin 'perla.' This gem-inspired name evokes qualities of rarity, purity, and lustrous beauty. While never extremely common, Perle has maintained steady usage in France and among French-speaking communities worldwide. The name experienced modest popularity in the early 20th century and has seen a small revival among parents seeking vintage names with natural elegance. Perle's single-syllable simplicity combined with its soft ending creates a name that feels both classic and distinctive. The name carries subtle sophistication and a timeless quality that transcends trends.

Perle

Perline is a feminine name with French origins, derived from the word 'perle' meaning 'pearl.' It emerged as a variation of names like Pauline and Pearl, offering a distinctive yet elegant option. The name conveys qualities of preciousness and beauty, much like its gemstone association. While not widely common in English-speaking countries, Perline has maintained a quiet presence, particularly in French-speaking regions and among families seeking a name with subtle refinement. Its gentle sound and meaningful connection to something naturally beautiful and rare make it an appealing choice for parents looking for something slightly unconventional yet classically feminine.

Perline

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.

Perlette

Pépélope is a feminine name that appears to be a stylized variation of Penelope, incorporating French-inspired accent marks. Penelope originates from Greek mythology, where she was the faithful wife of Odysseus known for her loyalty and cleverness. The name traditionally means 'weaver' or 'duck.' This variant spelling with accents gives the classic name a unique, international flair. While extremely rare compared to the traditional Penelope, Pépélope offers parents a way to honor the mythological roots while creating a distinctive identity for their daughter. The accented version might appeal to those with French heritage or those seeking a more exotic twist on a recognizable classic, though its pronunciation may cause some confusion in primarily English-speaking contexts.

Pépélope

Pensée

One of the least appealing of the ella-ending names, especially if you check pernicious in the dictionary. 

Pernella

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.

Perpétue

Five girls were given the name Perrine last year.  Other feminine Perry or Peter alternatives are Perrin, Perry, or even Petra.

Perrine

Perette is a delicate feminine name of French origin, representing the feminine form of Peter (Pierre in French). Derived from the Greek 'petros' meaning 'rock' or 'stone', it carries connotations of strength and steadfastness despite its gentle sound. Popular in medieval France, Perette has become quite rare in modern times, giving it a distinctive vintage charm. The name appears in historical French literature and folk tales, including as a character in La Fontaine's fables. With its subtle French elegance and two-syllable rhythm ending in the feminine '-ette' suffix, Perette offers an uncommon alternative to more widely used French names. It maintains an air of classic refinement while being virtually unique in contemporary usage.

Perette

Peita is a feminine name with possible roots in both Greek and Maori traditions. In Greek context, it may be related to 'petra' meaning 'rock' or 'stone,' symbolizing strength and stability. In Maori usage, it could be a variant spelling of 'Peta,' the Maori form of Peter. The name has a gentle yet distinctive sound that sets it apart from more common feminine names. Peita remains relatively rare in most English-speaking countries, giving it a unique quality for parents seeking something uncommon. The name has a pleasant rhythm and modern feel while potentially carrying cultural significance. Its brevity and easy pronunciation contribute to its appeal for contemporary parents looking for something both accessible and unusual.

Peita

Pierrette is the French feminine form of Peter or Pierre, an antiquated if charming feminization in the style of Albertine.

Pierrette

Pierra is a feminine name that appears to be a variation of Pierre, the French form of Peter, which means 'rock' or 'stone.' By adding the feminine '-a' ending to the traditionally masculine Pierre, the name creates a feminine equivalent while maintaining its French aesthetic. This pattern of feminizing male names has historical precedent across many European languages. Pierra has a sophisticated, continental European flair that suggests strength and elegance simultaneously. While relatively uncommon, it offers an interesting alternative to more popular names like Petra or Patricia that share similar etymological roots. The name's rarity gives it distinction, while its recognizable sounds make it accessible. Pierra might appeal to parents with French heritage or those seeking an uncommon name with romantic language influences.

Pierra

Pétronille is a feminine French name derived from the Latin name Petronilla, the diminutive form of Petronia, which itself comes from Petrus (Peter), meaning "rock" or "stone." In Christian tradition, Saint Pétronille was venerated as the spiritual daughter of Saint Peter. The name carries an elegant, classic French quality with its distinctive pronunciation and accent mark. While relatively uncommon today even in French-speaking regions, it maintains a certain aristocratic charm and historical depth. Pétronille peaked in popularity during medieval times and experienced occasional revivals among families valuing traditional French naming conventions. The name offers a sophisticated alternative to more common Peter derivatives while maintaining the strong, steadfast qualities associated with its root meaning.

Pétronille

Pierina is a feminine Italian name derived from Piera, the female form of Piero, which comes from the name Peter (meaning 'rock' or 'stone'). The suffix '-ina' adds a diminutive quality, essentially meaning 'little Piera.' With its melodic four syllables and flowing Italian pronunciation, Pierina carries an elegant, romantic quality characteristic of Italian naming traditions. Though uncommon outside Italian communities, the name has maintained consistent albeit rare usage throughout the 20th century. Pierina offers the accessible nicknames Piera, Rina, or even Peri. For families with Italian heritage or those drawn to Italian cultural aesthetics, Pierina provides a distinctive option with classical roots and a sophisticated sound.

Pierina

Felipan is an unusual feminine name that appears to be a creative variation of Felipe (the Spanish form of Philip) or possibly Felipa (the feminine form). The name Philip derives from Greek elements meaning 'lover of horses.' Felipan is extremely rare, with very few documented uses as a given name. The addition of the 'an' suffix to a traditionally masculine name creates a unique feminine variation. This inventive approach to naming might appeal to parents seeking a truly distinctive name with recognizable roots. While lacking established popularity trends due to its rarity, Felipan carries the rich history associated with the name Philip, which has been used since ancient times and borne by numerous kings and saints throughout European history.

Felipan

Philippine might be taken as an ethnic identification rather than a name in the U.S. Philippa would be more easily understood, though if you don't mind eternally correcting people, Philippine can make an interesting alternative. Pippa can be a short form of Philippine as well as Philippa.

Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu is the soigné French actress who plays the fearfully chic boss in Emily in Paris.

Philippine

Philomène is a feminine French name derived from Greek origins, meaning 'lover of strength' or 'loved one.' It combines 'philos' (loving) with 'menos' (strength, courage). This elegant name carries a distinctly French character with its accent and pronunciation (fee-lo-MEN). Popular in France during the 19th century, Philomène has a vintage, sophisticated quality that has seen occasional revivals among parents seeking names with historical depth. In Catholic tradition, Saint Philomena was a virgin martyr, adding religious significance for some families. Though not common in English-speaking countries, the name maintains steady usage in Francophone regions and appeals to parents drawn to names with classical roots and a melodious, feminine character.

Philomène

The Phillis spelling of this once-popular name lives on thanks to Phillis Wheatley, the first African-American to publish a book of poetry, in the 18th century.

Phillis

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 61)

French Names (with Meanings and Popularity)