French Names for Girls

Lucinde is a feminine name with French and Latin origins, derived from Lucinda or directly from Latin 'lux' meaning 'light.' This elegant variation carries a slightly more European flair than the more common Lucinda, with its softened ending. Historically, the name appeared in literary works, including Molière's plays, giving it cultural and artistic associations. While never achieving widespread popularity, Lucinde maintains an aristocratic, refined quality that appeals to parents seeking something distinctive yet classically grounded. The name suggests brilliance, clarity, and illumination through its connection to light. Its melodic three-syllable structure flows gracefully in pronunciation while offering a subtle uniqueness in spelling that distinguishes it from more familiar feminine names with similar sounds.

Lucinde

Lucrèce is a feminine French name derived from the Latin 'Lucretia.' It has ancient Roman roots, referring to a noblewoman in Roman history whose tragic fate influenced the establishment of the Roman Republic. The name suggests nobility, virtue, and moral strength. The French spelling with the grave accent adds a touch of elegance and cultural refinement. While never extremely common, Lucrèce has maintained a presence in French-speaking countries, particularly among families with appreciation for classical culture. The name carries literary and historical associations, as it was featured in works by Shakespeare and other notable writers.

Lucrèce

Pretty, delicate and crystal clear, with the readymade nickname of Lucy.

Lucida

Innovative French word name, suggesting illumination and clarity. 

Lumière

Madella is a feminine name that likely originated as a diminutive or variation of Madeline or other 'Mad-' names derived from Magdalene, which refers to Mary Magdalene in the New Testament. The suffix '-ella' adds a feminine, diminutive quality meaning 'little' or 'young' in Latin-based languages. Madella has an elegant, vintage quality reminiscent of names popular in the early 20th century. It remains quite rare in contemporary usage, appealing to parents seeking unusual vintage names with familiar roots. The name has a melodic quality with its soft consonants and alternating vowel sounds. Potential nicknames include Della, Maddie, or Ella.

Madella

Madelle is a feminine name that likely developed as a diminutive or variation of names like Madeleine or Madeline. It combines the familiar 'Mad-' prefix with a delicate '-elle' suffix, creating a name that sounds both familiar and unique. The name has French undertones, with 'elle' meaning 'she' in French, adding a touch of elegance. Madelle is quite rare, not appearing regularly in popularity charts, which makes it an uncommon choice for parents seeking something distinctive. The name has a gentle, melodic quality while maintaining a certain strength. As with many variations of traditional names, Madelle offers the comfort of familiarity while standing apart from more common alternatives.

Madelle

Magdala is a feminine name with profound historical and biblical connections. It derives from the ancient town of Magdala on the Sea of Galilee, most famously known as the home of Mary Magdalene, an important figure in Christianity. The place name Magdala has Aramaic origins meaning "tower" or "elevated place." This gives the name a sense of strength and prominence. While never among the most popular names, Magdala has been used sporadically throughout history, particularly in religious communities. It offers a less common alternative to the more familiar Magdalene or Madeline while maintaining the rich historical and spiritual heritage.

Magdala

Magdalaine is an elegant variation of Magdalene, which derives from Magdala, an ancient town on the Sea of Galilee whose name meant 'tower' in Aramaic. The name gained significance in Christian tradition through Mary Magdalene, a follower of Jesus. This particular spelling adds a French-inspired sophistication with the 'ai' combination. Magdalaine offers a graceful alternative to the more common Magdalene or Madeline variations, maintaining the historical richness while providing a distinctive flair. Though relatively uncommon, the name carries timeless appeal with its biblical connections and melodic sound. Magdalaine projects dignity and classical femininity while the unusual spelling gives it a touch of uniqueness that sets bearers apart.

Magdalaine

Magdaleine is an elegant variation of Magdalene, ultimately derived from Magdala, an ancient place name meaning 'tower' in Aramaic. The name carries profound religious significance through its association with Mary Magdalene, a prominent female follower of Jesus in the New Testament. This elaborated spelling adds a touch of French sophistication to the classic name. Magdaleine combines historical depth with feminine grace, offering a slightly uncommon alternative to more familiar forms like Madeline or Magdalena. The name suggests dignity and spiritual connection while its melodious quality creates a sense of refinement. Though not widely used, it appeals to parents drawn to names with rich historical and religious foundations.

Magdaleine

Intriguing spin on Margaret or Maggie, for admirers of French surrealist Rene Magritte. 

Magritte

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

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

Manet

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 39)

French Girl Names (with Meanings & Popularity)