French Names for Boys

Artus is a masculine name with ancient roots, primarily appearing as a Latin variation of Arthur. The name Arthur itself has Celtic origins, possibly deriving from the Roman name Artorius or from Celtic words meaning 'bear' (arth) and 'man' or 'hero.' Artus was notably the Latin form used in medieval literature when referring to the legendary King Arthur of Camelot. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Artus has seen some usage in continental European countries, particularly in France and Germany. The name carries a noble, historical presence with connections to chivalry, leadership, and mythic heroism. Its distinctive form offers an alternative to the more common Arthur while maintaining the same strong historical resonance.

Artus

Has the two-syllable sound so popular for boys, though adding an apostrophe -- and turning it into D'Anton -- changes the name entirely. 

Danton

A French form of Benedict that makes a smooth and elegant choice, although the pronunciation may trip people up in an English speaking environment.

Benoît

Dapper-sounding choice with old American roots (Dabney Cosby was a 19th century Virginian architect who worked with Thomas Jefferson on some of that state's most iconic buildings). Dabney Montgomery was Martin Luther King Jr's bodyguard, giving this name yet more American history depth. Dab is a sweet nickname option for this name.

Dabney

A unisex French name, but you may want to simplify your son's life if you're English speakers by going with Cyril. It's an unusual enough name that it doesn't need further complications of spelling and pronunciation.

Cyrille

Benôit is a French variant of Benedict, featuring the distinctive circumflex accent that adds a touch of Gallic sophistication. Derived from the Latin name Benedictus, meaning "blessed," this name carries centuries of cultural and religious significance. While less common than the standard French spelling Benoît, this slightly altered version maintains the same pronunciation and cultural associations. In French-speaking regions, particularly Quebec and parts of Europe, variations of this name maintain moderate popularity. The name evokes images of refinement and carries connections to numerous saints and notable figures throughout history, including famous writers and artists of French heritage.

Benôit

<p>Arséne is a masculine name of French origin, derived from the Latin name Arsenius, which comes from the Greek word 'arsenikos,' meaning 'masculine' or 'virile.' The name carries a distinguished and somewhat aristocratic quality. Historically, it was popularized by early Christian saints, including Saint Arsenius the Great, a Roman tutor to emperors who later became a desert monk. In modern times, the name gained recognition through figures like Arsène Wenger, the long-serving former manager of Arsenal Football Club. While never extremely common, Arséne maintains a steady presence in French-speaking regions. The name conveys strength, dignity, and classical refinement, appealing to those who appreciate names with historical depth and European elegance.</p>

Arséne

Aloin is a rare masculine name with potential botanical connections, as aloin is a compound found in aloe plants known for medicinal properties. The name likely shares etymological roots with names like Alain and Alan, which derive from Celtic language elements meaning 'handsome' or 'cheerful.' With its distinctive sound and uncommon usage, Aloin offers a unique option for parents seeking a name that stands out. The name has never ranked in popular name charts in the United States or most English-speaking countries, making it an exceptionally rare choice. Its clean pronunciation and familiar structure make it accessible despite its uniqueness.

Aloin

Ignace is the French form of Ignatius, derived from the Latin name Ignatius, which may come from the Roman family name Egnatius of Etruscan origin. The name gained prominence through St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuit order. Ignace combines religious heritage with a sophisticated French flair. While never extremely common, it has maintained steady usage particularly in French-speaking regions and Catholic communities. The name carries connotations of intellectual depth, spiritual devotion, and cultural refinement. Its pronunciation (roughly ee-NYASS) adds a melodic quality that distinguishes it from the more formal Ignatius while retaining its historical significance.

Ignace

A name that is truly honored in France, as the name of several saints, artists like Daumier, and writers like Balzac. 

Honoré

Hippolyte is the name of an Amazonian princess AND her son, both unfortunate mythical figures. The name Hippolyte, later borne by several saints, is a not an uncommon boys' name in France, but has barely set foot on American soil and is unlikely to do so.  It was the middle name of famed French playwright Jean Giraudoux. 

Hippolyte

Hilaire, a name that has rarely been exported out of its native France, was originally bestowed in honor of the fourth century bishop and theologian St. Hilaire of Poitiers.

Hilaire

Grue is an uncommon masculine name with Norse and Scottish origins. In Norwegian, 'grue' refers to dread or horror, while in Scottish dialect, it can mean 'to shudder' or 'to feel uneasy.' The name also appears in some place names in Scotland and Norway. As a personal name, Grue is exceedingly rare, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking something truly unique. The name has literary connections as well, appearing in various works of fiction and fantasy. Its short, strong sound gives it a bold quality despite its rarity. Grue may appeal to parents with Scandinavian heritage or those attracted to names with mysterious or evocative meanings.

Grue

Arnaud

Hewett

Hervé was a legendary French saint, patron of the blind, who performed many miracles -- it's a lot more sophisticated than the English Harvey. 

Hervé

Hercule is a masculine name directly derived from Greek mythology, serving as the French variant of Hercules, the legendary hero known for his extraordinary strength and twelve labors. Made particularly recognizable through Agatha Christie's fictional detective Hercule Poirot, the name carries connotations of intellectual prowess alongside physical might. Despite its powerful mythological associations, Hercule remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, though it has maintained steady usage in French-speaking regions. The name projects authority, determination, and exceptional ability. Its distinctive classical heritage makes it appealing to parents drawn to mythological names with substantial cultural significance. Pronounced typically as 'air-KOOL' in French tradition, the name has a sophisticated European flair.

Hercule

Onfroi is a masculine name of Germanic origin that evolved through Old French. It derives from the Germanic elements "hun" (meaning bear cub or warrior) and "frid" (peace). Onfroi is a medieval French variant of the name that eventually evolved into Humphrey in English. Popular among Norman nobility after the conquest of England, the name has strong historical connections to medieval European aristocracy. Today, Onfroi remains exceedingly rare, offering a distinctively antique and sophisticated option for parents drawn to names with historical depth. Its unusual sound pattern and noble heritage make it an uncommon choice with significant historical resonance.

Onfroi

Hebert is a masculine name with Germanic origins, functioning primarily as a surname that has occasionally transitioned to first-name usage. It represents a variant spelling of Herbert, which combines the elements 'hari' (army) and 'berht' (bright or famous), conveying the meaning 'bright warrior' or 'illustrious soldier.' Particularly common in French-speaking regions, especially among Cajun communities in Louisiana, Hebert maintains its traditional pronunciation (often as 'A-bear' rather than 'HE-bert'). While relatively uncommon as a first name in most English-speaking countries, it carries a dignified, classic quality that appeals to parents seeking a distinctive name with historical roots and familial connections.

Hebert

Corneille is a French masculine name derived from the Latin 'Cornelius,' which was a prominent Roman family name. The name gained particular distinction in France through Pierre Corneille, a celebrated 17th-century French playwright who was a foundational figure in French tragic drama. Historically, the name carries associations with nobility and literary accomplishment. While common in French-speaking regions and countries with French cultural influence, Corneille remains relatively rare in English-speaking countries, giving it an air of sophistication and uniqueness. The name typically pronounced 'kor-NAY' in French, carries melodic qualities and cultural richness that connect bearers to both Roman heritage and French artistic tradition.

Corneille

French boy names include some classics that have become widely popular, most notably Charles, Louis, and Dennis. Along with Charles and Louis, the French boys' ranking in the US Top 1000 include Andre, Beau, Blaise, Bruce, Chance, Chase, Curtis, Darrell, Denver, Dion, Josue, Remy, and Royal. 

 attracting fresh attention in the US include Dion, Emilien, Florent, Jules, Lionel, Montague, Pom, and Quincy.

 are Gabriel, Leo, and Raphael. French boy names most popular in France include Mael, Jules and Corentin. 

Most popular boy names in other French-speaking countries are a mix of French and non-French choices. Louis and Jules are the only French names among

, which is led by the Hebrew Noah and the Celtic Arthur. 

, with Louis the only French boys' name in the Top 10. And in French Quebec, Olivier and Antoine are the most popular French boy names.



Browse our complete collection of French boys' names here. The names are ordered by their current popularity on Nameberry, which is updated monthly.

French baby boy names popular in the US and in France, including tradition French boy names such as Charles and Louis, with meanings, origins, and popularity. (Page 11)

270+ French Boy Names