French Names for Girls

Orleane is a feminine name derived from the place name Orleans, a historic city in France. The name blends French elegance with a touch of Southern American charm, as it also evokes associations with New Orleans. Orleane has remained quite rare throughout history, giving it an air of exclusivity and distinction. The name has a romantic, old-world quality with its flowing syllables and soft ending. Orleane might appeal to parents seeking a name with historical connections and a subtle European flair without being overly common. Though uncommon, its similarity to more familiar names like Orlene or Arlene makes it accessible while maintaining its unique character.

Orleane

Curiously appealing, in a hoop-skirted, wasp-waisted way, Ottoline has recently entered the realm of modern possibility, especially since Sienna Miller chose it as the middle name of her daughter Marlowe.
 Lady Ottoline Morrell was an influential British aristocrat who was a force in the artistic and literary community of her day, patron of such figures as T. S. Eliot and Aldous Huxley.
 The Franco-German Ottolie is an equally intriguing option.

Ottoline

Paméla is the French variation of Pamela, a name created by the English poet Sir Philip Sidney for his 16th-century pastoral poem 'Arcadia.' The name is believed to be derived from Greek elements 'pan' (all) and 'meli' (honey), suggesting sweetness. The addition of the accent in the French spelling (Paméla) adds a touch of elegance while preserving the melodic quality of the original. The name gained significant popularity in the 18th century after Samuel Richardson used it for the virtuous heroine of his novel 'Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded.' In French-speaking regions, Paméla has periodically enjoyed fashion waves, particularly in the 1970s-1980s, and remains recognizable while not overly common.

Paméla

Sophisticated, stylish feminine form of Pascal especially appropriate for girls born around Easter or Passover. 

Pascale

Pascaline is a feminine name with French origins, derived from the male name Pascal, which comes from the Latin 'paschalis' meaning 'relating to Easter' or 'born at Passover.' The addition of the feminine suffix '-ine' creates this elegant variation. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Pascaline has maintained modest usage in French-speaking regions. The name carries associations with springtime, renewal, and celebration. Historically, it gained some recognition through Blaise Pascal's 17th-century calculating machine called the Pascaline. The name combines classical roots with a melodic, sophisticated sound. Pascaline offers the friendly nickname options of Pasca or Lina for those who prefer shorter forms.

Pascaline

Pasquette is a feminine French diminutive form of Pascal or Pasqua, names ultimately derived from the Latin 'Pascha' meaning 'Easter.' Historically used in French-speaking regions, Pasquette would typically be given to girls born during the Easter season. The name carries cheerful spring associations and religious significance related to rebirth and renewal. The diminutive suffix '-ette' adds a delicate, feminine quality to the name. While never achieving widespread popularity, Pasquette has a lyrical, distinctive sound that evokes French heritage. Today, it remains a very rare choice that would stand out for its uniqueness and seasonal connection.

Pasquette

Pascasia is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from 'Pascha' meaning 'Easter' or 'Passover.' It's the feminine form of Pascasius, traditionally given to children born during the Easter season. This name carries religious significance in Christian traditions, symbolizing renewal, rebirth, and spiritual awakening. Though rare in contemporary use, Pascasia has historical precedent, particularly in Catholic countries and communities. The name has a melodious quality with its flowing syllables and soft sounds. It offers parents seeking a distinctive religious name an option with deep historical roots. Pascasia might appeal to those drawn to vintage names with clear spiritual connections and a feminine, classical sound.

Pascasia

Pascalie is a feminine name with French origins, derived from the masculine Pascal, which comes from the Latin 'paschalis' meaning 'relating to Easter' or 'born at Passover.' The feminine suffix '-ie' gives the name a graceful, flowing quality typical of French feminine names. While relatively uncommon even in French-speaking regions, Pascalie carries connotations of spring, renewal, and spiritual significance through its connection to Easter. The name has a melodic, three-syllable rhythm that feels both elegant and approachable. Pascalie offers families a distinctive choice that balances uniqueness with comprehensible pronunciation and spelling. Like other holiday-inspired names, it subtly references important cultural and religious traditions while functioning beautifully as a personal name with a touch of French sophistication.

Pascalie

This, the simplest French female version of Paul, was brought into the U. S. mix by novelist Paule Marshall, whose roots are in the West Indies. 

Paule

Almost completely unknown in this country: an intriguing possibility. 

Paulille

Perle is a delicate feminine name derived from the French word for 'pearl,' ultimately from Latin 'perla.' This gem-inspired name evokes qualities of rarity, purity, and lustrous beauty. While never extremely common, Perle has maintained steady usage in France and among French-speaking communities worldwide. The name experienced modest popularity in the early 20th century and has seen a small revival among parents seeking vintage names with natural elegance. Perle's single-syllable simplicity combined with its soft ending creates a name that feels both classic and distinctive. The name carries subtle sophistication and a timeless quality that transcends trends.

Perle

Perline is a feminine name with French origins, derived from the word 'perle' meaning 'pearl.' It emerged as a variation of names like Pauline and Pearl, offering a distinctive yet elegant option. The name conveys qualities of preciousness and beauty, much like its gemstone association. While not widely common in English-speaking countries, Perline has maintained a quiet presence, particularly in French-speaking regions and among families seeking a name with subtle refinement. Its gentle sound and meaningful connection to something naturally beautiful and rare make it an appealing choice for parents looking for something slightly unconventional yet classically feminine.

Perline

Perlette is a feminine name of French origin, derived from 'perle' meaning 'pearl.' It essentially translates to 'little pearl,' with the diminutive suffix '-ette' adding a delicate, endearing quality. This charming name evokes images of something precious, refined, and luminous. While never achieving mainstream popularity, Perlette has remained a distinctive choice for parents seeking something both elegant and uncommon. The name carries connotations of purity, rarity, and natural beauty, much like the gem it references. In French culture, pearls symbolize wisdom acquired through experience, giving the name an additional layer of significance beyond its aesthetic appeal.

Perlette

Pépélope is a feminine name that appears to be a stylized variation of Penelope, incorporating French-inspired accent marks. Penelope originates from Greek mythology, where she was the faithful wife of Odysseus known for her loyalty and cleverness. The name traditionally means 'weaver' or 'duck.' This variant spelling with accents gives the classic name a unique, international flair. While extremely rare compared to the traditional Penelope, Pépélope offers parents a way to honor the mythological roots while creating a distinctive identity for their daughter. The accented version might appeal to those with French heritage or those seeking a more exotic twist on a recognizable classic, though its pronunciation may cause some confusion in primarily English-speaking contexts.

Pépélope

Pensée

One of the least appealing of the ella-ending names, especially if you check pernicious in the dictionary. 

Pernella

Perpétue is a feminine French name derived from the Latin 'perpetua,' meaning 'continuous' or 'everlasting.' The name carries significant historical weight through its connection to Saint Perpetua, a Christian martyr from the 3rd century who died for her faith in Carthage and whose memoir is one of the earliest known works by a Christian woman. Despite its beautiful meaning and historical significance, Perpétue remains uncommon outside of French-speaking regions and Catholic communities. The name conveys a sense of endurance, faithfulness, and timelessness. With its elegant French pronunciation and accent mark, Perpétue has a sophisticated quality that distinguishes it from more common names.

Perpétue

Five girls were given the name Perrine last year.  Other feminine Perry or Peter alternatives are Perrin, Perry, or even Petra.

Perrine

Perette is a delicate feminine name of French origin, representing the feminine form of Peter (Pierre in French). Derived from the Greek 'petros' meaning 'rock' or 'stone', it carries connotations of strength and steadfastness despite its gentle sound. Popular in medieval France, Perette has become quite rare in modern times, giving it a distinctive vintage charm. The name appears in historical French literature and folk tales, including as a character in La Fontaine's fables. With its subtle French elegance and two-syllable rhythm ending in the feminine '-ette' suffix, Perette offers an uncommon alternative to more widely used French names. It maintains an air of classic refinement while being virtually unique in contemporary usage.

Perette

Peita is a feminine name with possible roots in both Greek and Maori traditions. In Greek context, it may be related to 'petra' meaning 'rock' or 'stone,' symbolizing strength and stability. In Maori usage, it could be a variant spelling of 'Peta,' the Maori form of Peter. The name has a gentle yet distinctive sound that sets it apart from more common feminine names. Peita remains relatively rare in most English-speaking countries, giving it a unique quality for parents seeking something uncommon. The name has a pleasant rhythm and modern feel while potentially carrying cultural significance. Its brevity and easy pronunciation contribute to its appeal for contemporary parents looking for something both accessible and unusual.

Peita

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 43)

French Girl Names (with Meanings & Popularity)