French Names for Girls

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

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

Abelle is a feminine name of French origin, serving as a variant of the more common Abelle or Abella. It derives from the Hebrew name Abel, meaning "breath" or "vapor." The feminine suffix "-elle" adds a delicate, graceful quality to this ancient name. Abelle combines historical depth with melodic beauty, featuring soft sounds that flow elegantly. This name remains uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving it a distinctive quality for those seeking something traditional yet unique. Its rarity may appeal to parents wanting a name with historical roots but not frequently encountered. Abelle carries a gentle, feminine energy while maintaining connections to its biblical heritage.

Abelle

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

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

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

Morgane is a feminine name of Welsh and Breton origin, a variant of Morgan that's particularly popular in France. It derives from the Welsh elements 'mor' meaning 'sea' and 'gan' meaning 'born,' together suggesting 'born from the sea' or 'sea-dweller.' In Arthurian legend, Morgan le Fay was a powerful enchantress, giving the name mystical associations. The addition of the final 'e' in Morgane gives the name a distinctly French flair and feminine quality compared to the more unisex Morgan. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Morgane has maintained steady popularity in France and French-speaking regions. The name balances ancient Celtic roots with a contemporary sound, offering mythological depth alongside modern appeal.

Morgane

This name for the sweetbriar shrub is a bit too reminiscent of eggplant, but it does have literary creds, having appeared in Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. The French form Églantine appeared in the charts in the first half of the 20th century and again in the 2000s.

Eglantine

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

Haitian writer Edwidge Danticat highlighted this sophisticated, chignon-wearing choice for literate parents. 

Edwige

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.

Musette

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

Manet

Nadége is a variant of the French name Nadège, which itself is derived from the Russian name Nadezhda, meaning 'hope.' This elegant feminine name has its ultimate origins in Slavic languages, where hope is considered a virtue and a spiritual gift. In France, Nadège gained popularity during the 20th century, and Nadége represents a slightly altered spelling that maintains the same melodic pronunciation. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, the name has a sophisticated European appeal and carries positive connotations through its meaningful root. The accent mark gives the name a distinctive touch, though it's sometimes simplified to Nadege in non-French contexts.

Nadége

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

Dulcette is a feminine name derived from Latin roots, specifically from 'dulcis' meaning 'sweet' or 'gentle.' It functions as a diminutive form of Dulce, with the French-influenced '-ette' suffix adding a sense of delicacy. The name evokes qualities of sweetness, charm, and grace. Though relatively uncommon in modern usage, Dulcette has an inherent musicality that connects it to musical terminology, where 'dulcet' describes pleasant, melodious sounds. The name carries romantic, old-world connotations while maintaining a distinctive quality. Parents might choose this name for its elegant sound, positive meaning, and the gentle personality it suggests for a daughter.

Dulcette

Dulcet is an unusual feminine name derived from the Latin word 'dulcis,' meaning sweet or pleasant. While primarily known as an adjective describing something melodious or soothing to the ear, Dulcet's use as a given name is extremely rare. The name evokes qualities of gentleness, harmony, and a pleasant disposition. As a name, it carries musical connotations, suggesting someone with a sweet voice or artistic sensibilities. Dulcet has never appeared in popular name rankings, making it an extraordinarily distinctive choice. The name's literary quality gives it an elegant, sophisticated character that might appeal to parents seeking something genuinely unique. Though uncommon as a name, its meaning is immediately accessible, conveying sweetness and melodious charm.

Dulcet

Amabel is an older name than Annabel and a lot more distinctive. Amabel was a very common name in the twelfth and thirteen centuries, then was revived during the nineteenth century British fad for medieval names.
 In a short story by H.H. Munro, about Amabel, the vicar's daughter, it is said "Her name was the vicar's one extravagance."
 Amabel's shortened form Mabel overtook the mama name early on.

Amabel

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 22)

French Girl Names (with Meanings & Popularity)