270+ French Boy Names

Fortun is a masculine name of Latin origin, derived from Fortunatus, meaning 'lucky,' 'fortunate,' or 'blessed.' As a shorter form of the traditional Fortunato or Fortune, it carries connotations of good luck and prosperity. The name has roots in Roman culture, where Fortuna was the goddess of fortune and luck. Fortun has seen limited usage throughout Western Europe, particularly in Spanish-speaking regions and parts of France. Unlike more common derivatives like Fortunato, the concise form Fortun remains quite rare in contemporary use. The name conveys positive expectations for a child's future and suggests an auspicious path in life. Its brevity gives it a modern feel despite its ancient origins.

The name of the great French novelist, author of the timeless The Count of Monte Cristo and The Three Musketeers, would make a surprising middle name choice.

Ferrante is a masculine Italian name derived from the Germanic elements 'fardi' meaning 'journey' and 'nand' meaning 'brave' or 'daring.' Historically, it was the Italian form of Ferdinand, a name borne by several European monarchs and nobles throughout history. Ferrante was particularly prominent in Renaissance Italy, especially in Naples where Ferrante I ruled as King in the 15th century. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, the name maintains steady usage in Italy and among Italian diaspora communities. It carries connotations of nobility, strength, and cultural heritage. The distinctive sound pattern with its rolling 'r' and melodic ending give Ferrante a sophisticated, classical feel that appeals to parents seeking a name with strong historical roots and Mediterranean flair.

Chesare is a variant spelling of Caesar, derived from the famous Roman family name that became synonymous with leadership and imperial power. The name possibly originates from Latin words meaning 'hairy' or from an Etruscan word for 'elephant.' This alternative spelling gives the classic name a modern, distinctive appearance while maintaining its historical gravitas. While less common than the standard Caesar or the Italian Cesare, Chesare offers parents a way to honor this storied name with a unique twist. The name evokes qualities of strength, leadership and classical education, carrying echoes of Julius Caesar and the subsequent emperors who adopted his name as a title.

Ulysse is the French form of Ulysses, derived from the Latin Ulixes and Greek Odysseus, the legendary hero of Homer's epic poem "The Odyssey." This masculine name embodies qualities of cunning intelligence, resourcefulness, and perseverance through adversity. In France and other French-speaking regions, Ulysse maintains modest popularity and carries connotations of classical education and cultural sophistication. The name suggests a journey or adventure, reflecting the decade-long voyage of its namesake. With its classical roots yet distinctive sound, Ulysse appeals to parents seeking a name with historical depth that remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries while being recognized internationally.

Tite is a rare masculine name with possible roots in multiple cultural backgrounds. It may be a diminutive form of names containing 'tit' elements or derived from regional nicknames. In some Latin cultures, it can be a nickname for names like Bautista or other 'tist' containing names. In French contexts, it might serve as a familiar form of Baptiste or Baptistin. The name remains uncommon in English-speaking countries, maintaining a distinctive quality. While not ranking on popular name charts, Tite has a brief, memorable quality with its four-letter structure and simple pronunciation. The name carries a friendly, approachable sense with its short, uncomplicated sound pattern.

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.

Bale is a masculine name with multiple potential origins. It may derive from Old English where it referred to a rounded bundle or package, or from Welsh origins where it relates to a hillside or incline. The name has gained some recognition through association with notable figures like actor Christian Bale. Its simple, strong structure with one syllable gives it a bold, straightforward quality. In some Nordic traditions, similar names have connections to bravery or strength. While never extremely common as a first name, Bale has seen occasional usage across English-speaking countries. The name's brevity and strong consonant sounds contribute to its masculine feel, making it attractive to parents seeking something short, distinctive, and impactful.

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

Name of Faulkner's great emotional villain in As I Lay Dying, Anse is not ordinarily used as a first name. It literally means cove in French, though the element ans means God in Old German and is found in names such as Ansel and Anselm.

Noë is a masculine name derived from the biblical Noah, which comes from the Hebrew word meaning 'rest' or 'comfort.' This spelling variation is particularly common in French-speaking regions and parts of Western Europe. The dieresis over the 'e' (ë) indicates that the vowels are pronounced separately rather than as a diphthong, giving the name its distinctive two-syllable pronunciation (No-eh). Noë maintains the profound biblical significance of Noah, who built the ark and saved animal species from the great flood. Though less familiar in English-speaking countries, this variant offers a subtle, sophisticated European flair while preserving the name's ancient heritage and spiritual connections.

French saintly name, used for both boys and girls. Although not common in France, it has been used in small numbers for boys in the 2010s and 2020s. Candide, in its sense as the French word for "naive", was the title character of a satirical novel by Voltaire.

More likely to be spelled Constantine, this was the name of the first Christian emperor of the Roman empire, as well as three Scottish kings. Previously thought of as too bulky and unwieldy a name for a modern child, these days it would be perfectly acceptable.

Owain is much more unusual than its brother name Owen, and feels a little more rugged, a little more adventurous and ancient.

Elisée is a masculine name of French origin, derived from the biblical name Elisha (Hebrew: Elisha or Elishah), meaning 'God is salvation' or 'God is my oath.' This elegant French variation maintains the spiritual significance of its Hebrew roots while adding distinctive Gallic charm through its spelling and pronunciation. Particularly used in France, Quebec, and other Francophone regions, Elisée carries both religious heritage and cultural sophistication. The name appears in the Bible as the prophet who succeeded Elijah, giving it historical depth and spiritual associations. With its melodious sound and refined ending, Elisée offers a less common alternative to related names like Elias or Elijah while maintaining similar meaningful connections to faith traditions.

Baudoin is a masculine name of French origin, representing the French form of Baldwin. Derived from Germanic elements 'bald' meaning 'bold' and 'win' meaning 'friend,' Baudoin literally translates to 'brave friend' or 'bold ally.' The name carries significant historical weight, having been borne by several medieval kings of Jerusalem and emperors of Constantinople during the Crusader era. It was also popular among the nobility in medieval France and Flanders. Today, Baudoin remains relatively rare outside of French-speaking regions, particularly Belgium, where it gained recognition through King Baudouin I who ruled from 1951 to 1993. The name conveys strength and nobility while maintaining its distinctive French character.

Absalon is a distinctive masculine name of Hebrew origin, being a variation of Absalom, which means 'father of peace.' In the Bible, Absalom was the third son of King David, known for his striking beauty and tragic rebellion against his father. The Absalon variant has been particularly popular in Scandinavian countries, especially Denmark, where it gained prominence through the historical figure Absalon (1128-1201), a warrior bishop and statesman who is considered a founding father of Copenhagen. The name carries historical weight and biblical significance while remaining uncommon in English-speaking countries. Absalon projects strength and classical dignity with its ancient roots and distinctive sound pattern.

Davide is the Italian form of David, a masculine name with Hebrew origins meaning 'beloved' or 'favorite one.' This variant maintains the biblical connection to King David while adding a distinctly Italian flair with its three-syllable pronunciation (dah-VEE-deh). Particularly popular in Italy and Italian-speaking regions of Switzerland, Davide has a rich history dating back centuries. The name carries the same prestigious biblical legacy as David but with a more melodic Mediterranean sound. While less common in English-speaking countries, Davide has gained some international recognition through Italian cultural exports, including arts, fashion, and sports. The name conveys strength, creativity, and leadership—qualities associated with the biblical figure.

Francois is the ultimate sophisticated French name.