270+ French Boy Names

  1. Hervé
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "battle worthy"
    • Description:

      Hervé was a legendary French saint, patron of the blind, who performed many miracles -- it's a lot more sophisticated than the English Harvey.
  2. Fernand
    • Description:

      Fernand is a masculine name of Germanic origin, derived from elements meaning "journey" and "brave." It's the French and Catalan form of Ferdinand, a name with royal connections throughout European history. Fernand has been particularly popular in French-speaking regions and Spanish-speaking communities. The name exudes a certain aristocratic charm while maintaining a strong, masculine quality. Though less common today than in previous generations, Fernand continues to be appreciated for its distinguished history and international appeal. Notable bearers include French painter Fernand Léger and Belgian cyclist Fernand Jacobs. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, the name offers a sophisticated European alternative to more common names while being easy to pronounce and spell.

  3. Barber
    • Origin:

      French occupational name
    • Meaning:

      "beard"
    • Description:

      This name's all-male occupational roots help it break the Barbara bonds, but still not the most inspiring surname choice.
  4. Jermaine
    • Origin:

      Variation of Germaine
    • Meaning:

      "from Germany"
    • Description:

      A Jackson brother name also associated with the similar-sounding Jemaine, of Flight of the Conchords fame. It has slowly lost its appeal since its peak years in the 1970s.
  5. Lionellu
    • Description:

      Lionellu is a masculine name that appears to be a variant or diminutive form of Lionel, possibly from Sardinian or Italian dialectal origins. The base name Lionel derives from Latin 'leonellus,' meaning 'young lion,' symbolizing courage and strength. This particular variant with the '-u' ending suggests regional linguistic influences, most likely from Mediterranean island cultures where such name modifications are common. While extremely rare in mainstream usage, Lionellu carries the same noble associations as Lionel, which gained prominence through literary works and historical figures. The name evokes qualities of bravery, leadership, and natural dignity. For parents with connections to specific Mediterranean cultural traditions, particularly Sardinian or southern Italian, Lionellu might represent a way to honor those roots while bestowing a name with powerful symbolic meaning.
  6. Saby
    • Description:

      Saby is a versatile name used for boys, though it occasionally appears as a feminine name as well. It likely originated as a diminutive of names like Sebastian, Sabine, or Isabel, depending on the cultural context. In Latin American communities, it often functions as a nickname for Sebastian, while in Indian contexts, it may be a variant of Sabi, meaning 'eternity' or 'forever.' The name's brevity gives it a modern, approachable quality, while its potential connections to various linguistic traditions provide cultural depth. Saby remains uncommon as a formal given name in most Western countries, maintaining its distinctiveness. Its simple pronunciation and spelling make it accessible across cultures, while its rarity ensures individuality. The name has a friendly, unpretentious quality that balances uniqueness with approachability.
  7. Noë
    • Description:

      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.
  8. Quintille
    • Description:

      Quintille is a rare masculine name with Latin origins, derived from 'quintus' meaning 'fifth.' In ancient Rome, it was traditionally given to the fifth child or to boys born in the fifth month of the Roman calendar (July). The name carries an aristocratic, scholarly quality with its classical roots. Quintille represents a more elaborate variation of the more familiar Quintin or Quintus. Despite its historical connections, Quintille remains exceptionally uncommon in modern usage, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with classical elegance and historical depth. The name's mellifluous sound and unique character offer a sophisticated alternative to more common Q-names while maintaining clear pronunciation and spelling.
  9. Jérémie
    • Description:

      Jérémie is a masculine name of Hebrew origin, representing the French form of Jeremiah, meaning 'God will uplift' or 'appointed by God.' Common in French-speaking regions including France, Quebec, and Haiti, Jérémie carries biblical significance through its connection to the prophet Jeremiah. The accent over the second 'e' guides pronunciation and gives the name a distinctive French flair. While maintaining the spiritual depth of its biblical roots, Jérémie has a softer, more melodic quality than its English equivalent. The name experienced steady popularity in France throughout the late 20th century and remains a classic choice. Jérémie bridges traditional religious naming and European sophistication, appealing to parents seeking a name with both cultural depth and international elegance.
  10. Giraud
    • Description:

      Giraud is a masculine name of French origin, representing an old French form of Gerald, which derives from Germanic elements meaning "spear ruler" or "rule of the spear." This name carries an aristocratic, medieval quality, having been used among French nobility during the Middle Ages. While uncommon in modern usage, Giraud (pronounced approximately zhee-ROH) maintains a distinguished presence in French naming history and genealogical records. The name has a sophisticated, somewhat austere quality that connects to its historical roots. Giraud offers parents a rare name choice with authentic French heritage and historical significance. It could be seen as a more distinctive alternative to the more familiar Gerard or Gerald while maintaining similar etymological roots.

  11. Lionnel
    • Description:

      Lionnel is a masculine name that serves as a variant spelling of Lionel, which derives from the Old French name 'Leonel,' meaning 'young lion.' The double 'n' adds a distinctive touch while maintaining the name's strong, noble character. Historically, Lionel gained prominence through Arthurian legend, where Sir Lionel was a Knight of the Round Table, lending the name an air of chivalry and heroism. The name evokes qualities of strength, courage, and leadership through its leonine associations. Though Lionnel with this specific spelling is uncommon, the traditional Lionel has maintained steady, modest usage throughout the decades. The name carries a classic dignity that transcends trends, making it appealing to parents seeking something both traditional and distinctive.
  12. Hercule
    • Description:

      Hercule is a masculine name directly derived from Greek mythology, serving as the French variant of Hercules, the legendary hero known for his extraordinary strength and twelve labors. Made particularly recognizable through Agatha Christie's fictional detective Hercule Poirot, the name carries connotations of intellectual prowess alongside physical might. Despite its powerful mythological associations, Hercule remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, though it has maintained steady usage in French-speaking regions. The name projects authority, determination, and exceptional ability. Its distinctive classical heritage makes it appealing to parents drawn to mythological names with substantial cultural significance. Pronounced typically as 'air-KOOL' in French tradition, the name has a sophisticated European flair.