Names ending in ette
- Robinette
Origin:
Feminization of Robinet, FrenchMeaning:
"bright fame"Description:
The R in Joseph R. Biden Jr. stands for Robinette, the President's paternal grandmother's maiden name. In Medieval France, Robinette was used as a feminine given name derived from the male form Robinet and later became a matronymic surname via Robine.
- Scarlette
Origin:
Spelling variation of ScarlettMeaning:
"brilliant red"Description:
Although we think Scarlett is plenty feminine enough without the girly -ette suffix, this variation entered the US Top 1000 in 2011, where it remained for more than a decade. In 2023, it dropped off the list, however, it was still given to 240 girls that same year.
The traditional Scarlett is used 26 times more often its more elaborate counterpart, but Scarlette could could have the plus side of drawing people's eyes away from the "Scar" syllable and onto the second part of the name. For anyone hoping to use nickname Lettie, Ettie, or Etta - or plan to use it to honor a Charlotte - this form could be more appealing.
- Lizette
Origin:
French, diminutive of ElizabethMeaning:
"pledged to God"Description:
Whether you spell it Lisette or Lizette, a somewhat dated diminutive that nevertheless retains some charm.
- Adette
Description:
Adette is a feminine name that appears to be a diminutive form of Ada or Adele, with French linguistic influences. The 'ette' suffix typically indicates 'little' in French, suggesting 'little Ada' as a potential meaning. Ada itself derives from the Germanic element 'adal' meaning 'noble.' Adette remains quite rare in contemporary usage, never having ranked among popular names in the United States or most European countries. The name has a delicate, vintage quality that might appeal to parents seeking something traditional yet uncommon. Its brevity combined with the soft ending creates a name that's both feminine and refined without being overly elaborate.
- Vignette
Origin:
English from FrenchMeaning:
"short and evocative description; little vine"Description:
The french word vignette literally means "little vine," but in English it is a literary and art term. In literature, a vignette refers to a brief but vivid description, and in art, an illustration or photo that fades into the background, sans border.
- Sylvette
Description:
Sylvette is a delicate feminine name of French origin, functioning as a diminutive of Sylvie or Sylvia, which derive from Latin 'silva' meaning 'forest' or 'wood.' The suffix '-ette' adds a sense of daintiness and charm, typical of French naming patterns. The name gained some recognition through Pablo Picasso's series of artwork titled 'Sylvette,' inspired by a young woman he met in 1954. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, Sylvette has maintained modest usage in French-speaking regions. The name evokes images of woodland grace and carries a sophisticated European flair while remaining approachable. Its connection to nature aligns with current naming trends favoring botanical and natural elements.
- Fleurette
Description:
Fleurette is a delicate feminine name of French origin, derived from 'fleur' meaning 'flower,' with the diminutive suffix '-ette' adding a sense of daintiness—essentially meaning 'little flower.' This charming name evokes images of springtime blossoms and carries a distinctly romantic, vintage French aesthetic. While never achieving widespread popularity, Fleurette has maintained a consistent presence as a rare and elegant choice. The name reached modest recognition in the early 20th century, particularly in French-speaking regions and among Francophiles. Fleurette offers a more elaborate and sophisticated alternative to the simpler Flora or Fleur. With its unmistakably French character and botanical associations, Fleurette remains a graceful option for parents drawn to names with European flair and natural beauty.
- Amorette
Origin:
Variation of AmoretDescription:
Amorette is an elaborate variation of the old yet rare girls' name Amoret, used in Spenser's The Faerie Queen to represent married love.
- Lynnette
Description:
Lynnette is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive form of Lynn or Linda. It has French and English roots, with Lynn deriving from the Welsh word 'llyn' meaning 'lake' or possibly from the Old English element 'lind' meaning 'soft, tender.' The name gained significant popularity in the United States during the 1940s and 1950s, reaching its peak in the early 1960s. Lynnette has a delicate, graceful quality with its soft consonants and French-influenced ending. The name conveys a classic femininity while avoiding overuse. Though less common today, Lynnette maintains associations with elegance and refinement. The spelling variation Lynette (with one 'n') is also used, but the double-n version has historically been more popular.
- Etienette
Description:
Etienette is a delicate feminine French name, functioning as the female form of Etienne (the French equivalent of Stephen). It ultimately derives from the Greek 'Stephanos,' meaning 'crown' or 'garland,' symbolizing honor and victory. This elegant, uncommon name carries a distinctly French sophistication with its soft ending and refined sound. Though rare even in French-speaking regions, Etienette offers a charming alternative to more common feminine forms like Stephanie. The name combines classic origins with a melodic quality that feels both traditional and distinctive. Its elaborate construction gives it an aristocratic flair while maintaining a gentle, feminine character suitable for contemporary use.
- Linette
Description:
Linette is a feminine name of French origin, functioning as a diminutive of Line or Lina, which themselves derive from names ending in -line or -lina, such as Caroline, Emmeline, or Angelina. The name means 'little Line' or can be interpreted as 'little flax' in reference to the flax plant that produces linen. With its soft, melodic sound and French flair, Linette has maintained steady but modest usage throughout the 20th century. It peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1960s but remains relatively uncommon. Linette offers a delicate, feminine option that balances traditional roots with a certain lyrical charm, making it appeal to parents seeking a name that's recognizable but not overused.
- Vedette
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"star, leading actor"Description:
Translating to "star", but used to refer to the leading female artist in a cabaret show, for French speakers, this would be like naming your child "Showgirl".
- Evolette
Origin:
American invented name, Variation of EvoletDescription:
A stylish smoosh of Evelyn and Juliette, also a variation of the invented name Evolet.
- Ninette
Origin:
French diminutive of AnnMeaning:
"grace"Description:
Not quite Nanette and not quite Ninon, this is one of the more unusual 'ette' options. There was an eponymous Spanish film, starring Elsa Pataky, based on a novel.
- Musette
Description:
Musette is a delicate feminine name of French origin with musical associations. Derived from the French word for a small bagpipe-like instrument popular in the 18th century, it also refers to a charming rustic dance. The name gained some recognition through its appearance in the opera 'La Bohème,' where Musetta is a spirited character. Though uncommon in mainstream usage, Musette carries a whimsical, artistic quality that appeals to parents drawn to French-inspired names with cultural depth. Its musical roots make it especially appealing to families with artistic inclinations. Despite its rarity, Musette offers a memorable, melodic quality while maintaining an elegant French sophistication that sets it apart from more commonly used French names.
- Jette
Origin:
Dutch diminutive of names ending in jette or ietteDescription:
Many popular Dutch short forms are drawn from the middle or end of their proper name: Sanne from Susanne, Bas from Sebastian. Jette could be from a name like Henriette or Mariette.
- Fayette
Origin:
Short form of Lafayette, FrenchMeaning:
"faith"Description:
Short form found in historical records, feels a tad feminine for modern times.
- Silhouette
Origin:
French surnameMeaning:
"shadow outline"Description:
Étienne de Silhouette (1709–67), French author and politician, gave his name to this portraiture technique – although, strangely, no one knows why.
- Pierrette
Origin:
Feminine form of Pierre, French version of PeterMeaning:
"rock"Description:
Pierrette is the French feminine form of Peter or Pierre, an antiquated if charming feminization in the style of Albertine.
- Clairette
Description:
Clairette is a feminine name of French origin, functioning as a diminutive of Claire (meaning 'clear' or 'bright' from Latin 'clarus'). The suffix '-ette' adds a touch of delicacy and charm, typical of French feminine diminutives. Beyond its use as a personal name, Clairette is also known as a variety of white wine grape grown primarily in southern France. The name evokes qualities of clarity, brightness, and refinement with its French styling. While never achieving widespread popularity outside of French-speaking regions, Clairette carries an elegant, sophisticated air that appeals to those drawn to names with French flair. The name suggests a personality that is illuminating, pure, and graceful, with the diminutive form adding a note of endearing sweetness.