French Names for Boys

Vardon

Vermont

Verrill

Victoir is a distinguished masculine name with French origins, functioning as a variant of Victor. Derived from the Latin word 'victor' meaning 'conqueror' or 'winner,' it carries powerful connotations of triumph and success. This elegant variation adds a touch of French sophistication to the traditional form. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Victoir has maintained a quiet presence in Francophone regions and among families with French heritage. The distinctive spelling with the added 'i' creates a unique identity while preserving the name's strong, victorious essence. For parents seeking a name with both classical roots and a touch of distinctive flair, Victoir offers a compelling option with its inherent sense of achievement.

Victoir

Creative surname choice, associated with the great French postimpressionist Edouard Villard. 

Villard

Villiers

Virgile is a masculine name of Latin origin, the French form of the Roman name Virgil or Vergilius. It is most notably associated with the classical Roman poet Virgil, author of the 'Aeneid,' giving the name strong literary and cultural resonance. The name derives from the Latin 'virga,' meaning 'staff' or 'wand,' possibly referencing protection or authority. While traditional in French-speaking regions, Virgile remains uncommon in English-speaking countries, offering a refined European alternative for parents seeking a name with classical roots. The name carries connotations of intellect, creativity, and classical education. Its soft sounds combined with the strong 'l' ending create a balanced name that is both gentle and dignified, embodying a timeless quality that transcends trends.

Virgile

Borne by a number of early saints, it comes from the Latin word for life. 

Vitalis

As a surname, Viel is a French and English variation of Vial, ultimately from the Latin word for "life". The German variation is derived from the word vil, meaning "swamp" or "bog".
 
In the Philippines, Viel is a contraction of Victoria Elizabeth. Viel (born Victoria Eliza) Aquino is a member of the political Aquino family in the Philippines.

Viel

A happy combination of several desirable genres: it's a word name, it has a foreign accent, and it has a highly virtuous meaning. And few other parents will be bold enough to choose it.

Vrai

Gauther is a masculine name with Germanic origins, likely a variant of Gautier, the French form of Walter. The name derives from elements meaning 'ruler of the army' or 'powerful warrior,' reflecting its military heritage. Historically, variations of this name were common among medieval nobility across Western Europe. Gauther maintains a distinctive old-world charm while being uncommon in modern usage, making it an option for parents seeking a name with historical depth but little current popularity. The unique spelling gives the name a subtle French or aristocratic quality, differentiating it from the more common Walter or Gauthier variants while preserving its noble connotations.

Gauther

Often spelled Gauthier, this could make a distinctive way to honor Grandpa Walter, but first syllable pronounced 'goat' might be a problem.

Gautier

This is one you will get tired of explaining. 

Zachalie

This name feels warmer and more human-appropriate in its longer version, but still retains that breezy feel. Trivia tidbit: Zephyrinus was a Jewish pope. 

Zephyrin

Woody Allen used this name for his daughter to honor jazz hero Sidney Bechet -- and it could work for a boy as well.

Bechet

A glowing and sophisticated choice, Aurélien is the French form of the Roman Aurelius, ultimately from aureus meaning "gold, gilded". This form ranked in the French Top 30 back in the 80s and remained popular throughout the 90s, however, more recent counts have seen it drop back to just within the Top 500, with alternative Aurèle slightly preferred. 
A notable bearer is footballer Aurélien Tchouaméni

Aurélien

Might make a worthy masculine spin on either of the uber popular Emma or Emily.

Emilien

Fans of the classic French film actor Jean Gabin might want to consider this one. Gabin is also a harmonica-playing character in the manga and anime series "Mirmo!"

Gabin

Surname of French architect Jean Nouvel that became a given name when Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie used it as the middle name of their daughter Shiloh.

Nouvel

Briefly in the US Top 1000 in the late 19th century, Fate likely emerged as a short form for the old French name, Lafayette. In the contemporary landscape however, it may well be perceived as a word name among English speakers, akin to Destiny, Chance, Blessing, and Chosen. Around six boys are given the name Fate each year in the US, though 2023 saw it rise a little, with ten babies receiving the name.

Fate

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 14)

270+ French Boy Names