French Names for Boys

Bartholmieu is a rare masculine name that serves as a French variant of Bartholomew. Derived from the Aramaic 'bar-Talmay,' meaning 'son of Talmay' or 'son of the furrows,' it has ancient biblical connections as one of Jesus's twelve apostles. The French influence gives this version a sophisticated, aristocratic quality with its distinctive spelling and pronunciation. Unlike the more common Bartholomew or Bart, Bartholmieu has remained exceedingly rare in English-speaking countries, making it an exceptionally unique choice. The name carries historical gravitas while evoking medieval French heritage. Parents seeking a truly distinctive name with classical roots might appreciate Bartholmieu's combination of historical depth and uncommon status.

Bartholmieu

Bartholome is a masculine name with biblical and historical significance, representing a variant spelling of Bartholomew, one of Jesus's twelve apostles. Derived from the Aramaic 'bar-Talmay' meaning 'son of Talmai,' it carries ancient heritage and religious connotations. This spelling variation appears in medieval records and maintains popularity in some European regions, particularly with French and Spanish influence. Bartholome offers a slightly softer pronunciation than Bartholomew while preserving its distinguished heritage. Though not among today's most common names, it provides an option for parents seeking a name with deep historical roots and religious significance. The name's international variants and diminutives like Bart or Bartolo offer flexibility for everyday use.

Bartholome

Barthélemy is the French form of Bartholomew, derived from the Aramaic name Bar-Talmay, meaning "son of Talmai" or "son of the furrows." This distinguished name carries significant historical weight as one of Jesus's twelve apostles in the New Testament. In France, Barthélemy has been used since medieval times, with Saint Barthélemy's Day (August 24) marking a notable event in French history—the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre of 1572. The name has an elegant, aristocratic quality with its French pronunciation (bar-tay-lay-MEE). While not commonly used in modern France, it maintains a classic, sophisticated appeal. The name appears occasionally in French literature and historical contexts, contributing to its cultured image.

Barthélemy

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.

Bale

Bayless

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

Beauchamp

Benôit is a French variant of Benedict, featuring the distinctive circumflex accent that adds a touch of Gallic sophistication. Derived from the Latin name Benedictus, meaning "blessed," this name carries centuries of cultural and religious significance. While less common than the standard French spelling Benoît, this slightly altered version maintains the same pronunciation and cultural associations. In French-speaking regions, particularly Quebec and parts of Europe, variations of this name maintain moderate popularity. The name evokes images of refinement and carries connections to numerous saints and notable figures throughout history, including famous writers and artists of French heritage.

Benôit

A French form of Benedict that makes a smooth and elegant choice, although the pronunciation may trip people up in an English speaking environment.

Benoît

Bernot is a masculine name with French and Germanic origins, likely derived as a variant or diminutive of Bernard. The root name Bernard combines the Germanic elements 'bern' meaning 'bear' and 'hard' meaning 'brave' or 'strong,' thus conveying the meaning 'strong as a bear.' Bernot is considerably rare, even in France where it occasionally appears as a surname. As a given name, it offers a distinctive alternative to the more common Bernard, maintaining the strong etymological connection to courage and strength while having a softer ending. The name carries an old-world European charm and might appeal to parents seeking a name with historical resonance but minimal current usage.

Bernot

Bernardin is a masculine name with French and Germanic roots, serving as a diminutive form of Bernard. Derived from the elements 'bern' (bear) and 'hard' (brave, strong), Bernardin essentially means 'little brave bear' or 'young strong bear.' This sophisticated variation has been particularly used in French-speaking regions and among Catholic families, as it recalls St. Bernardine of Siena, a 15th-century Franciscan missionary. Despite its elegant sound and historical connections, Bernardin remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with European flair and historical depth without being commonly encountered.

Bernardin

Bernon is a masculine name with Germanic roots, likely derived from elements meaning 'bear' (bern) and possibly 'strength' or 'protection.' It can be considered a variant of names like Vernon or Bernard, though with its own distinct character. Bernon has maintained a steady but uncommon presence throughout Western naming history, never reaching widespread popularity but persisting across generations. The name carries a dignified, somewhat old-world charm that evokes images of steadfastness and reliability. In modern usage, Bernon might appeal to parents seeking a traditional-sounding name that isn't commonly heard, maintaining the strong consonant sounds of classic masculine names while offering a unique alternative to more popular choices.

Bernon

This name of famed philosopher, mathematician and Nobel laureate Bertrand Russell becomes slightly more plausible with the French pronunciation, bare-TRAHN. Another noted bearer is French director and screenwriter Bertrand Tavernier.

Bertrand

An English surname derived from the French place name Beauvais, which in turn comes from the name of an ancient Gaulish tribe, the Bellovaci.

Bevis

Blaisot is an uncommon masculine name that appears to be a diminutive form of Blaise, a name with Latin and French connections. Blaise derives from the Roman name "Blasius," possibly related to "blaesus" meaning "lisping" or "stammering." The suffix "-ot" is a French diminutive ending that adds an affectionate quality. Saint Blaise was a physician and bishop who became a widely venerated saint, particularly known as the patron of throat ailments. Blaisot is extremely rare in modern usage, giving it a distinctive historical and French character. The name carries both religious connotations through its saintly association and a certain old-world charm through its traditional French diminutive structure. It would be considered a very unique choice in contemporary naming practices.

Blaisot

So tied to being Jacqueline Kennedy's maiden name that it's best saved for a girl. 

Bouvier

Ron Burgundy was Will Ferrell's fictional helmet-haired newsman, but this color name is much more suited to a girl. 

Burgundy

Drop the C and arrive at an established biblical name. 

Cable

Cabot is an attractive English surname associated with the daring early Italian-born British explorer known as John Cabot; his birth name was Giovanni Caboto.


Cabot

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.

Chesare

Césaire is a distinguished masculine name of French origin, derived from the Latin name Caesar, which means 'head of hair' or possibly 'to cut.' The name carries an air of nobility and intellectual gravitas, partly due to its association with notable figures like Aimé Césaire, the renowned Martinican poet and politician. Predominantly used in French-speaking regions and countries with French colonial history, Césaire maintains a certain elegance and cultural richness. The name's sophisticated pronunciation (say-ZAIR) and accent mark give it a distinguished quality in international contexts. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, it appeals to parents seeking a name with historical depth, literary connections, and a distinctively French character.

Césaire

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 20)

270+ French Boy Names