270+ French Boy Names
- Garson
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"to protect"Description:
Straightforward surname with potential thanks to the rise of Carson. The actress Greer Garson gives it a splash of Hollywood glamor.
- Hewett
Origin:
French, diminutive of HughDescription:
Hugh plus.
- Sauveur
Description:
Sauveur is a masculine French name derived from the Latin "salvator," meaning "savior" or "rescuer." This name carries profound religious significance in Christian contexts, where it directly references Jesus Christ as the Savior. In France, the name has historical usage particularly in Catholic families. Sauveur is especially associated with Corsica, where Saint Sauveur has been venerated. The name combines spiritual depth with a certain melodic elegance characteristic of French naming traditions. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, it maintains a modest presence in Francophone regions. Sauveur offers a name that balances unique qualities with deep historical roots, appealing to parents seeking a name with both distinctive sound and meaningful etymology.
- Rodrigue
Description:
Rodrigue is a masculine name of Germanic origin that reached the Romance languages through Spanish and Portuguese forms. It derives from elements meaning "fame" and "power" or "ruler." This is the French form of Rodrigo, which has been popular throughout the Iberian Peninsula and Latin America. Rodrigue carries an air of medieval nobility and literary significance, notably as the protagonist in Pierre Corneille's famous 17th-century French tragedy "Le Cid." While somewhat rare in modern usage, particularly in English-speaking countries, the name maintains popularity in French-speaking regions and among families with French or Spanish heritage. Rodrigue offers a sophisticated European alternative to the more common Rod or Roderick variations, with a distinctive pronunciation that emphasizes the final syllable in the French manner.
- Arnaut
Description:
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.
- Ange
Description:
Ange is a masculine name of French origin, derived from the Latin word "angelus" meaning "messenger" or "angel." While more commonly used as a feminine name in English-speaking countries, Ange is traditionally masculine in French culture. This elegant and spiritual name carries celestial connotations, reflecting divine messengers in many religions. In France, it has maintained modest popularity throughout the centuries, often chosen for its simple yet meaningful nature. Despite its brevity, Ange carries significant symbolic weight, representing purity, protection, and guidance. The name's brevity and soft sound make it distinctive yet accessible across different cultures.
- Squire
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"esquire"Description:
Conjures up a tweedy English country gentleman with a large paunch.
- Bouvier
Origin:
French occupational nameMeaning:
"herdsman"Description:
So tied to being Jacqueline Kennedy's maiden name that it's best saved for a girl.
- Août
Description:
Août is an unusual masculine name derived directly from the French word for the month of August. Pronounced 'oo' (similar to the English word 'ooh' but shorter), it's the French adaptation of the Latin 'Augustus,' named after Emperor Augustus and meaning 'majestic' or 'venerable.' While extremely rare as a first name even in French-speaking regions, it carries strong associations with summer, harvest time, and abundance. The name might be given to boys born in August, similar to how names like April or June function in English. Its uniqueness makes it striking and memorable, though its pronunciation may present challenges in non-French speaking areas. As a name, Août represents a bold choice that connects a child to French language and culture.
- Aloin
Description:
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.
- Foulques
Description:
Foulques is a masculine name of Old Germanic origin that came into prominence in medieval France. It derives from the Germanic element 'folk,' meaning 'people' or 'army.' Historically significant, the name was borne by several Counts of Anjou during the Middle Ages, including Foulques V who became King of Jerusalem during the Crusades. Despite its noble heritage, Foulques remains exceptionally rare outside of historical contexts and French genealogical records. The pronunciation (roughly 'Foolk') may present challenges in English-speaking regions. This name carries strong connections to medieval European history and French heritage, making it an erudite choice for parents interested in historical names. Its extreme rarity guarantees distinctiveness for any modern bearer.
- Odon
Description:
Odon is a masculine name with rich historical roots across several cultures. In Hungarian, it developed as a form of the Germanic name Odo or Otto, meaning 'wealth' or 'prosperity.' The name also appears in French heritage, sometimes as a variant of Eudes, sharing the same Germanic origins. In Spanish contexts, it may relate to the medieval name Odón, borne by several saints and historical figures. Despite its historical pedigree across Europe, Odon remains relatively uncommon in the United States. The name's brevity and strong sound give it a distinctive quality, while its international connections add depth. Its simplicity makes it accessible across language barriers, yet its rarity ensures individuality. The name carries an air of quiet dignity and old-world charm.
- Quennel
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"dweller at the little oak tree"Description:
We can think of two drawbacks to this name: the slightly feminine el ending, and the resemblance to the delicate dumpling called a quenelle.
- Raynold
Description:
Raynold is a masculine name with Germanic roots, derived from 'ragin' meaning 'counsel' and 'wald' meaning 'rule' or 'power.' It's closely related to names like Reginald, Reynard, and Ronald, all sharing similar etymology. Popular during the Middle Ages throughout Europe, Raynold was carried by various nobles and knights. The name traveled with Norman influence and adapted into different forms across cultures. While less common today than some of its variants, Raynold maintains a distinguished, somewhat medieval character that appeals to parents seeking names with historical weight. Its strong consonants give it a robust quality, while potential nicknames like Ray offer more casual alternatives.
- Barbeau
Origin:
French occupational nameMeaning:
"fisherman"Description:
How to spruce up Fisher or Beau? This French surname-name might be an option for a parent unafraid of the unusual. The name derives from Barbel, a type of fish, which is how it became a surname for some fishermen.
- Baudoin
Description:
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.
- Timothé
Description:
Timothé is a masculine name that represents the French form of Timothy, which derives from the Greek name Timotheos, meaning 'honoring God' or 'honored by God.' The accent on the final 'e' creates the distinct French pronunciation (tee-mo-TAY), giving the name an elegant, sophisticated quality. While common in French-speaking regions, Timothé remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, offering a distinctive international flair. The name carries biblical associations through Timothy, a companion of Paul in the New Testament. Timothé blends classical roots with a refined European sensibility, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with traditional foundations but a cosmopolitan character. Its gentle sounds combined with its meaningful etymology create a balanced and dignified name.
- Philbert
Origin:
French from Greek, "dear, beloved"Meaning:
"dear, beloved"Description:
Varying Filbert does not improve the name: it still makes one think of a nut.
- Picard
Origin:
French from BasqueMeaning:
"from Picardy"Description:
Associated with the "Star Trek" commander of the USS Enterprise.
- Villiers
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"town-dweller"Description:
Name with aristrocratic overtones.