French Names for Girls

Undiscovered name of picturesque northern French port. 

Calais

Appoline is a feminine name of French origin, derived from the Greek name 'Apollonia,' which itself comes from the Greek god Apollo, associated with light, music, and healing. This elegant name carries a sense of classical beauty and sophistication. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Appoline has maintained a quiet presence in French-speaking regions. The name offers appealing nickname options such as Apple, Polly, or Lina. Appoline conveys a blend of ancient wisdom and refined grace, making it a distinctive choice that combines historical depth with melodic charm.

Appoline

Cadeau puts a decidedly French-ified twist on the word name trend, but don't be surprised if you encounter ponies and poodles with the same moniker. 

Cadeau

Cachet is one of those word names -- Cliché is the most egregious example -- that sounds lovely but seems slightly ridiculous when taken literally. 

Cachet

Toinon is a feminine French name that originated as a diminutive form of Antoinette, itself derived from Antoine (the French form of Anthony). The name has historical usage particularly in France during earlier centuries, often as a nickname that eventually became used as a given name in its own right. It carries a distinctively French character with its nasal ending, typical of French phonology. Toinon has remained quite rare throughout history and is now considered an antique name even in France. Its charm lies in its delicate sound and connection to French cultural heritage. Parents might choose this name for its elegant, vintage quality and distinctiveness while maintaining ties to the more common Antoinette family of names.

Toinon

Likely a French form of the Roman Aeliana, Éliane is a name that feels at once sophisticated and elegant, but also sunny and bright. Familiar in France, Canada, and Brazil, it can be spelled with the accent too.
 
If you follow its Latin roots back to Aeliana and Aelianus, Éliane means "sun", however it might additionally be seen as a variation of the Hebrew Eliana ("my God has answered") or a feminization of the French Élie ("my God is Yahweh").
 
Notable bearers include composer Éliane Radigue and swimmer Éliane Droubry.

Éliane

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

Papillon, meaning 'butterfly' in French, is a delicate and distinctive feminine name. Though primarily recognized as a dog breed (the French Papillon spaniel with butterfly-like ears), it has occasionally been adopted as a human name. The butterfly symbolism gives this name associations with transformation, beauty, and freedom. As a human name, Papillon remains extremely rare, appealing to parents drawn to unique French-derived names with clear natural imagery. The name's pronunciation (pap-ee-YON) adds to its exotic feel. While uncommon in mainstream usage, it shares qualities with other nature-inspired names like Mariposa or feminine French names.

Papillon

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

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

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

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

Eléonore is the French form of Eleanor, a name with Greek origins meaning 'bright, shining one' or 'light.' The elegant accent over the first 'e' emphasizes its French pronunciation and adds a touch of sophistication. 

Throughout European history, Eléonore in all its variations has graced queens and noblewomen, including Eléonore of Aquitaine, a powerful medieval queen of France and later England. While more common in French-speaking regions, it has international appeal for parents seeking a name with historical depth and European flair. 

The most common version in the US, Eleanor, is highly fashionable too -- and most Americans will ignore the accent over the second e or be confused by it and just call your little Eléonore Eleanor.

Eléonore

It's a place. It's a wine. It's a color. -- no wonder trend-heavy Burgundy's been discovered as a name. 

Burgundy

Élénora is an elegant feminine name with French and Greek influences. It combines elements of the Greek name Helen, meaning 'bright, shining light' or 'torch,' with the popular Eleanor/Eleonora variants found throughout Europe. The addition of the French accent mark (é) emphasizes its French heritage and gives the name a sophisticated, cosmopolitan quality. While less common than Eleanor or Eleonora, Élénora offers a melodic alternative with its flowing syllables and soft ending. The name carries associations with light, beauty, and grace, and connects to a long lineage of noble women throughout European history. For parents seeking a name with classical roots but a distinctive modern feel, Élénora provides a beautiful option that works well across multiple languages and cultural contexts.

Élénora

Brunette is an unusual feminine name derived from the French word for a woman with brown hair. While more commonly recognized as a descriptive term rather than a given name, it has occasionally been used as a female name throughout history, particularly in French-speaking regions or among families with French heritage. 

The name has an inherently feminine quality with its '-ette' suffix, which is a French diminutive ending. Brunette carries sophisticated, European overtones and suggests a classic, timeless elegance. As a given name, it remains extremely rare, making it a truly distinctive choice. 

Some may appreciate its direct reference to physical appearance, while others might find this limiting. Parents choosing this name might be drawn to its French flair and uniqueness, though bearers may need to frequently explain that their name is not merely describing their hair color but is indeed their given name.

Brunette

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

Probably too close for comfort to "toilette." Antonia conveys the same idea with a more mellifluous sound.

Toinette

Antonie is a feminine variation of the name Anthony, derived from the Roman family name Antonius, which has roots in Ancient Greece. The name means 'priceless' or 'of inestimable worth.' Popular in several European countries, particularly the Netherlands, Germany, and Czech Republic, Antonie offers an elegant and sophisticated alternative to more common feminine forms like Antonia. The name has maintained a steady but modest presence over the centuries, never reaching tremendous popularity but consistently appreciated for its classic appeal and historical richness. In recent decades, it has attracted parents seeking a traditional name with international flair and a touch of uniqueness.

Antonie

Whether you pronounce it like the original Amy or the Frenchified Ay-may, this form adds considerable elan to an old favorite. 

Aimée

French names for baby girls have always had a chic appeal for parents far from Paris. French names for girls are led today by Charlotte, one of the top girl names in the US, French Quebec, the British Isles, Australia, and New Zealand. 

 that rank in the US Top 200 include Eloise and Elodie, Caroline, Claire, Josephine, Natalie, Sophie, Sydney, and Valerie. French names for girls trending in the US include Remi and Remy, Juliet and Juliette, Margo and Margot, Esme, and Adele.

French names popular for baby girls in France

 include Louise — a common middle name in the US — Camille, Manon, and Lilou. Other top French names for girls around the world include Arielle, Belle, Eloise, Gabrielle, Juliette, and Vivienne.

 gaining new attention in the US, France, and internationally include Darcy, Delphine, Fleur, Ottilie, Romilly, and Sylvie.

Browse our full collection of French girl names here. The names are ordered by their current popularity on Nameberry, which is updated monthly.

French names for baby girls, ordered by popularity with meanings, including top French girl names in the US and France such as Eloise and Charlotte along with unique French. names for girls such as Olympiad and Maurelle.  (Page 20)

French Girl Names (with Meanings & Popularity)