French Names for Boys

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

Ismaël is the French and Arabic form of Ishmael, a name with deep biblical and Quranic significance. Derived from Hebrew origins, it means 'God will hear' or 'God has heeded.' In Islamic tradition, Ismaël is revered as the son of Ibrahim (Abraham) and is considered an important prophet. The name carries spiritual weight across multiple religions and cultures. The diaeresis over the 'e' distinguishes this variant, common in French-speaking regions and parts of the Middle East and North Africa. Ismaël has maintained consistent popularity in Muslim communities worldwide and in France, where it represents both religious heritage and multicultural identity. The name evokes themes of divine attention, spiritual legacy, and cultural richness.

Ismaël

Arnaud

Hewett

Yvon is a masculine name of French origin, serving as a variation of Yves or Yvonne. Derived from the Germanic element 'iv,' meaning 'yew tree,' which symbolized strength and endurance in ancient cultures. Predominantly used in French-speaking regions, particularly in Brittany and Quebec, Yvon has a long history dating back to medieval times. Though less common today than in previous generations, the name maintains a classic, understated elegance. Its simplicity and melodic quality give it timeless appeal, while its relative rarity in English-speaking countries lends it distinction. Yvon combines cultural heritage with a soft-spoken strength.

Yvon

Yvet is an uncommon masculine variation of the French name Yvette, which itself derives from the Germanic name Ivo, meaning 'yew tree' or 'archer.' While Yvette is traditionally feminine, Yvet represents a rare masculine adaptation. The name has roots in medieval France and can be found occasionally throughout Europe, particularly in French-speaking regions and the Netherlands. Yvet shares connections with other names from the same root, such as Yves and Ivo. Extremely rare in the United States and most English-speaking countries, it offers a distinctive option for parents seeking an uncommon name with European flair. The name carries connotations of elegance and refinement due to its French associations.

Yvet

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

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

Chance has risen far on the baby-naming charts, but Hazard has a considerably more dangerous edge.  It was the middle name of famed US naval commander Oliver Hazard Perry.

Hazard

Corentin is an intriguing saint's name fashionable in France but virtually unknown here-- which you may consider a big plus. St. Corentin possessed a magical fish that regenerated itself each night, feeding himself and his lucky visitors in perpetuity.


Corentin

What life Hadrien and Hadrian enjoy today, they owe to Adrian along with the revival of ancient Roman names in general.  Hadrian was a 2nd century Roman emperor famous for his wall.

Hadrien

Pronounced Beecham, but still too fancy and fey. Likewise Beaufort (beautiful fort), Beaufoy (beautiful beech tree), and Beaumont (beautiful mountain). 

Beauchamp

Jérémie is a masculine name of Hebrew origin, representing the French form of Jeremiah, meaning 'God will uplift' or 'appointed by God.' Common in French-speaking regions including France, Quebec, and Haiti, Jérémie carries biblical significance through its connection to the prophet Jeremiah. The accent over the second 'e' guides pronunciation and gives the name a distinctive French flair. While maintaining the spiritual depth of its biblical roots, Jérémie has a softer, more melodic quality than its English equivalent. The name experienced steady popularity in France throughout the late 20th century and remains a classic choice. Jérémie bridges traditional religious naming and European sophistication, appealing to parents seeking a name with both cultural depth and international elegance.

Jérémie

Jérôme is the French form of Jerome, ultimately derived from the Greek name Hieronymos, meaning 'sacred name.' This masculine name carries considerable historical weight through Saint Jerome, the 4th-century scholar who translated the Bible into Latin (the Vulgate). The French spelling, with its distinctive accent marks, adds a touch of sophistication and continental flair to the name. Jérôme has maintained consistent popularity in French-speaking regions, particularly in France, Quebec, and parts of Switzerland, though it's less common in English-speaking countries. The name evokes associations with intellectualism, scholarship, and cultural refinement. Jérôme offers parents a name with substantial historical depth and European elegance, particularly appealing to those with French connections or appreciation for French culture and pronunciation.

Jérôme

Jereme is a masculine name representing a variant spelling of Jeremy, which ultimately derives from the Hebrew name Jeremiah (Yirmeyahu), meaning 'God will uplift' or 'appointed by God.' This alternative spelling gives the classic name a distinctive touch while maintaining its biblical connections. Jereme gained modest popularity in the United States during the late 20th century as parents sought unique variations of traditional names. The pronunciation remains identical to Jeremy (JER-ə-mee), though some may emphasize the second syllable slightly differently. While less common than the standard spelling, Jereme offers the familiarity of a recognized name with a modern twist that sets it apart in written form.

Jereme

Arnaut is a masculine name with medieval European origins, particularly connected to the Balkans and Mediterranean regions. Historically, the term "Arnaut" was used by Ottoman Turks to refer to Albanians, deriving from the Greek "Arvanites." The name carries a strong, distinguished sound with its firm ending consonant giving it a bold quality. Arnaut has historical associations with warriors and soldiers, evoking images of strength and resilience. While relatively uncommon in contemporary Western societies, the name has maintained some usage in Balkan countries and among families with Albanian heritage. Its rarity offers distinctiveness, yet its straightforward pronunciation makes it accessible. Arnaut might appeal to parents seeking a name with historical depth and European cultural connections.

Arnaut

Aluin is a masculine name of ancient Germanic origin, believed to be a variant of Alvin or Alwin. The name combines the elements 'alf' meaning 'elf' and 'wine' meaning 'friend,' creating the poetic meaning 'elf friend' or 'friend of the elves.' In medieval contexts, this referred to supernatural wisdom rather than fantasy creatures. This rare name carries an air of antiquity and mysticism while maintaining a pronounceable, accessible sound. Historically found in Germanic and Nordic regions, Aluin has never achieved widespread popularity but persists as a distinctive choice with ancient roots. The name's connection to old folklore and mythology gives it an intriguing quality for parents seeking a name with historical depth. Pronunciation typically follows 'AL-win' or 'AL-oo-in,' depending on regional preferences.

Aluin

It's tempting to think of Gui as the Spanish form of Guy, but it's short for Guillermo.

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 12)

270+ French Boy Names