270+ French Boy Names

  1. Ismâïl
    • Description:

      Ismâïl is a masculine name with deep roots in Islamic tradition, being the Arabic form of Ishmael. The name comes from Hebrew origins meaning 'God will hear' or 'God has hearkened.' In Islamic tradition, Ismâïl was the son of Ibrahim (Abraham) and is considered a prophet. The spelling with diacritical marks (the circumflex and diaeresis) reflects French transliteration conventions of Arabic names. Ismâïl has been borne by numerous significant historical figures, including caliphs, sultans, and modern political leaders across North Africa, the Middle East, and Muslim communities worldwide. The name remains popular in Muslim-majority countries and diaspora communities. It carries connotations of divine favor, perseverance, and spiritual heritage, reflecting the biblical and Quranic narratives associated with the figure.
  2. Ballou
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "from Bellou"
    • Description:

      This surname-name comes with some great connotations: Addie Ballou the American feminist, Kurt Ballou — guitarist with the band Converge, or Adin Ballou — abolitionist and pacifist. It has a trendy, whimsical sound that sets it apart from more traditional surnames like Cooper, Hunter, and Archer and puts it more in the camp of the softer international names like Aaru, Bayou, and Finlo.
  3. Fidèle
    • Description:

      Fidèle is a masculine name with French origins, derived from the Latin 'fidelis' meaning 'faithful' or 'loyal.' This name carries significant historical and religious connotations, as it embodies the cherished virtue of fidelity. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, Fidèle has maintained a presence in Francophone regions, particularly in parts of Europe and former French colonies. The accent over the second 'e' (è) indicates the French pronunciation with emphasis on that syllable. As a given name, Fidèle offers a distinctive choice with clear positive associations, appealing to parents drawn to names with virtuous meanings and European heritage. The name's connection to steadfastness and devotion gives it a timeless quality despite its relative rarity.
  4. Theirry
    • Description:

      Theirry is a unique variation of the French name Thierry, which derives from the Germanic name Theodoric, meaning 'ruler of the people.' This alternate spelling maintains the French pronunciation while giving the name a distinctive appearance. Thierry has been popular in France for centuries, with notable bearers including French footballer Thierry Henry. The Theirry variant is exceedingly rare, offering parents a way to honor French heritage while providing a unique spelling. The name carries connotations of leadership and strength from its Germanic roots. Despite its rarity in English-speaking countries, the name has a sophisticated European flair that may appeal to parents seeking something both cultured and uncommon.
  5. Tancréde
    • Description:

      Tancréde is a masculine name of French origin, derived from the Germanic elements 'thank' (thought) and 'rad' (counsel). This sophisticated name carries historical significance, notably through Tancred of Hauteville, a Norman leader during the First Crusade. The name exudes nobility, strength, and a certain aristocratic quality with its distinctive accent mark. Tancréde has remained relatively uncommon outside of French-speaking regions, giving it an air of exclusivity and continental elegance. The name offers parents a rare combination of historical depth and uncommon usage, making it appealing for those seeking a masculine name with European flair and classical roots that hasn't been overused in modern naming trends.
  6. Sabinien
    • Description:

      Sabinien is a masculine name of Latin origin, derived from 'Sabinus,' which referred to a member of the ancient Sabine people who lived in the central Apennine Mountains of ancient Italy. The name gained recognition through Pope Sabinian, who led the Catholic Church briefly in the early 7th century. The '-ien' suffix reflects French influence and naming patterns. Though quite rare in modern usage, Sabinien maintains appeal in French-speaking regions and among those drawn to historically rich, distinctive names. It carries an elegant, scholarly quality with its classical roots and mellifluous sound. The name offers a rare alternative to more common saints' names while still having legitimate historical usage and religious connections.
  7. Othon
    • Origin:

      Greek form of Otto
    • Meaning:

      "wealth, fortune"
    • Description:

      A Greek form of the rising star Otto, Othon was brought to public consciousness when a Bavarian prince named Otto became the first modern king of Greece in 1832. It was briefly popular in France in the early 20th century and might appeal today, due to its relation to Otto, and its slight similarity to Ethan and Nathan.
  8. Jorden
    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Jordan
    • Description:

      Much less successful than other variations.
  9. Géaud
    • Description:

      Géaud is a rare masculine French name with possible roots in ancient Germanic naming traditions. The distinctive accent mark (acute accent) gives the name its proper French pronunciation, with a soft 'zh' sound at the beginning. While uncommon even in France, Géaud may be related to names like Géraud or Gérald, which derive from Germanic elements meaning 'spear' and 'rule' or 'power.' This name carries an air of aristocratic heritage and classical French sophistication. Géaud has never achieved widespread popularity, remaining instead a very uncommon choice that would stand out in most settings. The name's rarity gives it exclusivity while its French character lends it elegance and cultural specificity.

  10. Ézéchiel
    • Origin:

      French form of Ezekiel
  11. Jereme
    • Description:

      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.
  12. 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.
  13. Beauchamp
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "the beautiful field"
    • Description:

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

      Chrétien is a masculine French name derived from the Latin 'Christianus,' meaning 'Christian' or 'follower of Christ.' This name carries religious significance and has historical importance in French culture. Notable bearers include medieval French poet Chrétien de Troyes, famous for his Arthurian romances. While uncommon in modern usage, even in French-speaking regions, the name maintains an air of literary sophistication and cultural heritage. The distinctive accent mark (é) gives it an unmistakably French character. Chrétien evokes classical education and refinement, appealing to parents drawn to names with historical depth and European elegance. Its rarity makes it a distinguished choice that connects to both religious tradition and French cultural legacy.

  15. Silvestre
    • Description:

      Silvestre is a masculine name with Latin origins, derived from 'silva' meaning 'forest' or 'woodland.' The name essentially translates to 'from the forest' or 'wild,' conveying a natural, untamed quality. Popular in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries, Silvestre has ancient roots, notably carried by Pope Saint Sylvester I in the 4th century. The name maintains steady usage in Latin American countries, Spain, and Portugal, though it remains less common in English-speaking regions. It experienced modest peaks of popularity in the early 20th century and has seen periodic revivals. Parents may be drawn to Silvestre for its melodic quality, connection to nature, and cross-cultural appeal. The name carries a sophisticated European flair while evoking imagery of natural strength and wilderness.
  16. Gérald
    • Description:

      Gérald is the French form of Gerald, a masculine name with Germanic origins combining elements meaning 'spear' and 'rule' or 'power.' The accent mark over the 'e' creates the distinctive French pronunciation with emphasis on the first syllable. While Gerald has declined in popularity in English-speaking countries since its peak in the mid-20th century, Gérald maintains usage in French-speaking regions including France, Quebec, and parts of Switzerland and Belgium. The name carries associations of strength and leadership from its martial origins while the French spelling adds a touch of sophistication and continental flair. Gérald offers the friendly nickname options of Gerry or Gé, balancing formality with approachability.
  17. Érasme
    • Description:

      Érasme is the French form of Erasmus, a name with Greek origins meaning 'beloved' or 'desired.' This distinguished name is most famously associated with Desiderius Erasmus, the influential Dutch Renaissance humanist, Catholic priest, and theologian. The French variant maintains the scholarly and intellectual associations of its Latin counterpart while adding a touch of Gallic elegance. The accent over the 'E' gives the name a distinctively French pronunciation and appearance. While never extremely common, Érasme has maintained a presence in French-speaking regions, particularly among families valuing classical education and humanist traditions. The name conveys wisdom and learning, making it an appealing choice for parents drawn to names with intellectual heritage. Despite its historical significance, Érasme remains relatively uncommon in contemporary usage.

  18. Baltasaru
    • Description:

      Baltasaru is an uncommon masculine name with multicultural origins, appearing to be a variant of Balthasar or Balthazar. These names trace back to Babylonian origins and gained prominence as one of the traditional names of the Three Wise Men in Christian tradition. The distinctive ending with 'u' suggests possible Pacific Islander, Japanese, or other cultural adaptations of the traditional name. Baltasaru carries an exotic, regal quality with its rhythmic syllables and unusual structure. While rare in most Western countries, the name possesses a certain gravitas and historical significance. It evokes images of wisdom and discovery, connecting to ancient traditions while maintaining a unique character. Parents choosing this name might appreciate its cross-cultural heritage, distinctive sound, and the rich historical associations it carries.
  19. Ignace
    • Description:

      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.
  20. Purvis
    • Origin:

      French and English
    • Meaning:

      "providing food"
    • Description:

      This spelling does not dispel the "perv" connection.