French Girl Names (with Meanings & Popularity)

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.

Honoré is a French feminine name (though also used for males in French culture) derived from the Latin 'honoratus,' meaning 'honored' or 'respected.' With roots dating back to ancient Rome, the name embodies dignity, integrity, and virtue. It gained prominence through notable bearers like the French novelist Honoré de Balzac, though his was the masculine form. As a feminine name, Honoré carries an elegant, sophisticated quality with its French pronunciation (oh-no-RAY) adding a touch of cosmopolitan flair. While consistently used in French-speaking regions, it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it an attractive option for parents seeking a name with historical depth, clear meaning, and cultural refinement without being overly popular.

Célina is a feminine name with French linguistic roots, representing a variant spelling of Celina or Selina. The name likely derives from the Greek 'Selene,' goddess of the moon, giving it celestial associations. The acute accent over the 'é' emphasizes the French pronunciation (say-LEE-na) and adds a touch of elegance. While popular in French-speaking regions including France, Quebec, and parts of Switzerland, Célina maintains a moderate presence internationally. The name carries a delicate, refined quality characteristic of French nomenclature. Similar forms appear across multiple languages, including the Italian Celina and Spanish Selina, though the accented version distinctly signals its French heritage. Parents are often drawn to Célina for its graceful sound, cultural sophistication, and subtle connection to lunar symbolism.

Émilie is the French variation of Emily, derived from the Latin name 'Aemilia.' This elegant feminine name carries a sense of grace enhanced by the accent mark over the first 'e,' which indicates a specific pronunciation in French (ay-mee-lee). The name has a long history in French-speaking regions, with notable bearers including Émilie du Châtelet, an accomplished 18th-century French mathematician and physicist. Throughout France, Belgium, Switzerland, and Quebec, Émilie has maintained steady popularity, often ranking among the top 100 girls' names. The name conveys a classic yet timeless quality, embodying both intellectual depth and feminine charm across French-speaking cultures.

Richilde is a feminine Germanic name combining the elements 'ric' meaning 'power' or 'ruler' and 'hild' meaning 'battle' or 'warfare,' thus signifying 'powerful battle maiden' or 'strong female warrior.' The name has medieval roots and was borne by several noblewomen in European history, including Richilde of Provence, a 9th-century Queen of Western Francia. Despite its historical usage among aristocracy, Richilde has remained exceedingly rare in modern times. It carries a strong, regal quality with echoes of medieval chivalry and Germanic folklore. For contemporary parents, Richilde might appeal for its unique sound, historical depth, and powerful meaning, offering distinctive nickname options like Ricki or Hilde.

Estée is a feminine name most famously associated with the cosmetics entrepreneur Estée Lauder, whose birth name was actually Josephine Esther Mentzer. The name has French origins and is a stylized form of Esther, which derives from the Persian word for 'star.' The distinctive accent mark gives the name a touch of European sophistication and elegance. Though relatively uncommon as a given name, Estée carries connotations of beauty, luxury, and entrepreneurial success due to the Lauder connection. The name has a delicate yet strong quality, with its brief two syllables ending in an elegant accent. It appeals to parents seeking a name with cosmopolitan flair and subtle sophistication, while remaining distinctive in most naming contexts.

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.

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.