French Names for Girls

Nicholina is a feminine name that serves as an elaborate form of Nicole or Nicola, ultimately deriving from the Greek name Nikolaos, meaning 'victory of the people.' This elegant variation maintains the historical significance of its root while offering a more distinctively feminine quality. Though not widely used in English-speaking countries, Nicholina has maintained modest popularity in various European regions, particularly those with Slavic influences. The name offers several appealing nickname options, including Nina, Lina, and Nico. With its classical roots and melodious sound, Nicholina presents a sophisticated alternative for parents seeking a name with historical depth but distinctive character.

Nicholina

A British surname that was used only for males until Mrs. Norman Mailer, Norris Church (born Barbara), came under the public eye.


Norris

Popular in France and Quebec, but familiar in Switzerland and Belgium too, Océane is a French nature name that combines elegance with a beachy, summery feel. It recently ranked in the French Top 300, though back in the late 90s, it was even more popular, when it featured in the Top 10. 
 
Notable bearers of the name include tennis player Océane Dodin, model and actress Océane Zhu, figure skater, Océane Piegad, and actress Océane Mozas.

Océane

Octavie is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from the Roman name Octavius, meaning 'eighth' or 'born eighth.' It's the feminine form of Octave, particularly used in French-speaking regions. This elegant name carries a classical, sophisticated air with its French styling and historical connections. In Roman times, the name indicated the eighth child or a child born in the eighth month. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Octavie has maintained modest usage in France and other Francophone areas. The name offers a distinctive choice with a melodious quality and refined character. Its rarity makes it stand out, while its classical roots give it substance and historical depth.

Octavie

Octava is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from the word 'octavus' meaning 'eighth.' Historically, this name was often given to the eighth daughter in a family or to a girl born in the eighth month. While uncommon as a first name in most cultures, Octava has an elegant, classical quality that connects to both musical and literary traditions. In music, an octave represents a complete and harmonious interval, while in literature, 'octava' refers to an eight-line stanza form. The name carries a rhythmic quality with its three syllables and distinctive 'v' sound. Octava provides a more feminine alternative to the male forms Octavius or Octavian while maintaining the same connection to the rich symbolic heritage of the number eight.

Octava

The memorable folk singer, an early single-name celeb, brought this into the spotlight. The French variation is Odette.

Odetta

Odette's evil Swan Lake twin -- gives the name a sinuous, sensuous appeal. It was a popular choice in France in the 20th century and made the Top 40 back in 1952, however, it has since fallen out of favor.

Odile

Oliviane is a refined feminine name that appears to be an elaborate variation of Olivia, which derives from the Latin word 'oliva' meaning 'olive tree.' The addition of the elegant '-ane' suffix gives the name a French-inspired sophistication. Olive trees have symbolized peace, fertility, and bounty since ancient times, lending the name meaningful associations. Though quite rare in usage statistics, Oliviane offers an uncommon alternative for parents who appreciate the popularity of Olivia but desire something more distinctive. The name has a graceful, flowing quality with its four syllables and soft consonants. Oliviane bridges classical roots with a contemporary feel, making it timeless yet unique.

Oliviane

Olympiad is an unusual feminine name derived directly from the ancient Greek Olympic Games, held in honor of Zeus at Olympia. While extremely rare as a personal name, Olympiad carries powerful connotations of athletic achievement, excellence, and the four-year cycle of the historic and modern Olympic competitions. The name possesses a classical grandeur and intellectual quality, reflecting its Greek origins and connections to Mount Olympus, home of the gods. This distinctive name might appeal to parents with strong interests in classical history, sports, or Greek heritage. Despite its rarity in naming records, Olympiad offers potential nicknames like Oly or Lydia for everyday use. The name's uncommon nature makes it a bold choice that immediately evokes images of competition, achievement, and the celebrated tradition of the Olympic Games throughout history.

Olympiad

Olympe

Olympienne is an extremely rare feminine name derived from 'Olympian,' referring to the gods and goddesses who dwelled on Mount Olympus in Greek mythology. The feminine French suffix '-enne' adds elegance to this classical reference. The name essentially means 'woman of Olympus' or 'female Olympian,' carrying connotations of divine strength, excellence, and timeless beauty. Olympienne has never appeared on popularity charts, making it genuinely unique. This elaborate name offers majestic imagery with its connection to classical antiquity and athletic achievement through its relation to the Olympic Games. With its five syllables and French-inspired ending, Olympienne possesses an aristocratic, refined quality that makes a bold statement. Potential nicknames include Olympia, Pia, or Enne.

Olympienne

Though this name properly takes an accent over the first e, most Americans would probably have trouble pronouncing it with French elan.
 Ophelie is the title of a Rimbaud poem, Ophelie Davis is a French freestyle skating champ, and Ophelie Winter is a French actress and singerl.

Ophelie

French variation of Ophelia that might make that lovely-and-haunted name feel more viable, yet there will be inevitable pronunciation issues.

Ophélie

Ofilia is a feminine name that appears to be a variation of Ophelia, which has Greek origins meaning 'help' or 'assistance.' While Ophelia gained literary fame through Shakespeare's character in 'Hamlet,' the Ofilia variant is less common and primarily found in Spanish-speaking cultures. This spelling adaptation maintains the melodic quality of the original while giving it a distinctive flair. The name carries a sense of classical beauty and poetic resonance. Despite its appealing sound and literary connections, Ofilia remains relatively uncommon in most countries, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with historical depth but uncommon usage in contemporary society.

Ofilia

Filia is a feminine name with Latin origins, directly translating to 'daughter.' This elegant name carries historical significance in Roman culture, where familial connections were emphasized through naming traditions. Throughout history, Filia has been used in various European countries, though it remains relatively uncommon as a given name. It has connections to the word 'filial,' relating to the relationship between parent and child. In modern usage, Filia appeals to parents seeking a name with classical roots and meaningful etymology. Its simplicity, combined with its profound meaning of family connection, gives Filia a timeless quality that transcends trends while remaining distinctive and sophisticated.

Filia

Better go to the original Aurelia or Aurelie, if only for its similarity to the ord 'orally.'
In pop culture, Oralie is a Pokemon name. 

Oralie

Orlee is a feminine given name with Hebrew origins, derived from the word 'or' meaning 'light.' It's a variant of the more common Orli or Orly, carrying connotations of brightness and illumination. While relatively uncommon in most Western countries, Orlee has maintained a steady presence in Jewish communities. The name has a delicate, melodic quality that appeals to parents seeking something unique yet pronounceable. In recent decades, Orlee has seen modest usage in the United States and Israel, appreciated for its distinctive sound and positive meaning without being overly unusual.

Orlee

Oriana's not-quite-as-pretty French cousin. 

Orane

Oreli is a delicate feminine name that likely derives from several possible sources. It may be a variation of Aurelie (from Latin 'aureus' meaning 'golden') or a shortened form of Orielle (related to the French word for 'ear' or 'to hear'). The name has a lyrical, flowing quality with its soft vowel sounds. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Oreli has a cosmopolitan feel that crosses cultural boundaries. The name's brevity and melodic nature make it both distinctive and accessible. Its rarity gives it a special quality while its intuitive pronunciation prevents it from feeling too unfamiliar.

Oreli

Orianne is an elegant feminine name with roots in Latin and French traditions. It's believed to be a variation of Oriane, which itself derives from Latin 'oriens' meaning 'rising' or 'eastern,' suggesting connections to dawn or the rising sun. In medieval literature, Oriane was a princess in the Amadis de Gaula romance tales. The name gained some recognition through Orianne Cevey, the former wife of musician Phil Collins. With its sophisticated sound and uncommon status, Orianne balances uniqueness and accessibility. The name carries an artistic, somewhat exotic flair while remaining pronounceable in many languages. Though never reaching mainstream popularity, Orianne maintains steady appreciation among parents seeking a name with literary resonance and elegant feminine qualities.

Orianne

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 42)

French Girl Names (with Meanings & Popularity)