French Names for Boys

Léandre is a masculine name of Greek origin, derived from the mythological figure Leander who swam across the Hellespont nightly to visit his beloved Hero. The name combines the Greek elements 'leon' meaning 'lion' and 'andros' meaning 'man,' suggesting strength and courage. Particularly popular in French-speaking regions and Quebec, Léandre carries a sophisticated European flair with its accent mark. The name has classical roots while maintaining a contemporary feel. Though not common in English-speaking countries, it has steady popularity in Francophone areas. Léandre offers a distinguished alternative to more common names while providing the friendly nickname Leo or Léo. Its mythological associations add depth and romantic significance.

Léandre

This name, which is a French variant of Leo, is pronounced with the distinct French nasally N at the end. It is sometimes used in French to refer to popes named Leo.

Léon

The best-known bearer of this name by far is basketball superstar LeBron James. While LeBron James is a great athlete and American hero, only 19 baby boys were named LeBron or Lebron in 2021.

Lebron

Léonce is a masculine French name with ancient roots, derived from the Latin name 'Leontius,' which means 'lion-like' or 'belonging to the lion.' This distinguished name carries connotations of strength, courage, and nobility. Léonce has been used historically in France and French-speaking regions since medieval times, though it has never been among the most common names. The name experienced modest popularity in the 19th century but has become increasingly rare in modern times. Léonce has a sophisticated, somewhat aristocratic feel with its French accent mark and elegant pronunciation. The name's leonine associations give it a subtle power while maintaining its refined character.

Léonce

Léopold

Macaire is a masculine name with French origins, derived from the Greek name Makarios meaning 'blessed' or 'happy.' This elegant name has historical significance in France and appears in medieval texts and religious contexts. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Macaire carries a sophisticated European flair that appeals to parents seeking something distinctive yet classically rooted. The name has connections to several saints and historical figures throughout French history. Its pronunciation (typically mah-KAIR) gives it a melodic quality, while its spelling presents a refined appearance. Macaire bridges traditional naming conventions with a touch of uncommon distinction, offering a rare alternative to more popular French-origin names like Marc or Michel.

Macaire

Marcellin is a masculine name with French origins, derived from the Latin name 'Marcellinus,' which is a diminutive of Marcus meaning 'dedicated to Mars' (the Roman god of war). This elegant name has historical significance in Catholic tradition, with several saints bearing the name, including St. Marcellin Champagnat, a French priest who founded the Marist Brothers. While not extremely common in English-speaking countries, Marcellin maintains steady popularity in French-speaking regions, particularly in France, Quebec, and parts of Switzerland. The name conveys a sense of gentleness combined with classical dignity. Some variations include Marcelin, Marcelino (Spanish), and Marcellino (Italian).

Marcellin

The family name of Shakespeare's Romeo, Montague has a touch of old-fashioned grandeur about it. With clunky-cute nickname Monty and similar sounds to Montgomery, it has been used as a given name since at least the 18th century, with a number of English earls and baronets receiving the name, along with film director, Montague "Monty" Banks, journalist and radio host Montague Modlyn, and cricketer Montague Noble.
 
Ultimately derived from the Old French , the literary and aristocratic surname means "sharp mountain" or "pointy hill", giving it a nature connection too. Shakespeare took inspiration for the name from Dante's Divine Comedy in which the feuding families are called the Montecchi and the Cappelletti, Montecchi being the Italian equivalent of Montague, meaning "pointy" or "small" "mountain".
 
Given to just a handful of boys most years in the US, across the pond in England and Wales, it has seen increased use in the last decade. Its current peak was in 2018, when it was given to more than 50 boys, placing it in the Top 1000.

Montague

Moïse is the French form of Moses, a name with Hebrew origins meaning 'drawn out of the water,' referencing the biblical account of baby Moses being rescued from the Nile. This elegant variation maintains the historical and religious significance of the original while adding French sophistication through its pronunciation (moh-EEZ) and the distinctive diaeresis over the 'i.' Particularly common in French-speaking regions including France, Quebec, Haiti, and parts of Africa, Moïse carries both biblical gravitas and cultural refinement. The name experienced periods of popularity in French-speaking Jewish communities and among Christians drawn to biblical names. While less familiar in English-speaking countries than the standard Moses, Moïse offers international appeal for parents seeking a name with deep historical roots and spiritual significance that works well in multiple language contexts.

Moïse

Narcisse is a masculine name of French origin, derived from the Greek myth of Narcissus, a beautiful youth who fell in love with his own reflection. The name is connected to the narcissus flower, which in turn was named after the mythological figure. In French-speaking regions, particularly Quebec and parts of Europe, Narcisse has historical usage though it has never been extremely common. The name carries associations with beauty and self-admiration, though the negative connotations of narcissism have likely contributed to its limited popularity. Narcisse has an elegant, artistic quality with its soft sounds and classical references, appealing to those drawn to names with mythological depth and French linguistic heritage.

Narcisse

Nicaise is a masculine name of French origin with historical roots dating back to early Christianity. Derived from the Greek 'nike' meaning 'victory,' it was borne by several early Christian saints, including a 3rd-century martyr who was Bishop of Reims. The name has maintained modest usage in French-speaking regions, particularly in Belgium, France, and parts of Canada, as well as in some African nations with French colonial influence. Nicaise carries an elegant, classical quality with its distinctive pronunciation (approximately nee-KAZE). While uncommon in English-speaking countries, it offers a refined alternative to more familiar names like Nicholas. The name conveys sophistication and historical depth while maintaining a gentle, approachable sound.

Nicaise

Obéron is a masculine name derived from Auberon, the French form of Alberich, a Germanic name meaning 'elf ruler' or 'king of the elves.' Most famously, Oberon appears in medieval and Renaissance literature as the king of the fairies in Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream.' The addition of the accent in Obéron gives the name a distinctly French flair. This enchanting name carries magical and mystical associations, connecting the bearer to a rich tradition of folklore and literary fantasy. Though relatively uncommon as a given name, Obéron offers a majestic quality with its mythological heritage and regal connotations.

Obéron

Octave shortens Octavius to a more manageable length, keeping the "eighth" meaning. In English speaking countries, however, people could easily confuse this with the musical and poetrry term octave. This, however, might not be considered a bad thing, or even an accident. Cadence, Lyric, Poem, and Anthem had seen increased interest, so why not this musical word? 
 
The name appeared in the US stats in 2024 for the first time since the late 60s, when it was given to 6 boys.

Octave

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.

Odon

Odyssée is an uncommon masculine name derived from the ancient Greek epic 'The Odyssey,' written by Homer. The name evokes the legendary journey of Odysseus (Ulysses), symbolizing adventure, perseverance, and the quest for home. While Odysseus and Ulysses are more common as masculine names, Odyssée represents a unique French-influenced variation. The added accent gives it a distinctive French pronunciation and flair. This name carries rich literary and mythological associations, suggesting a person destined for interesting life experiences and resilience through challenges. Despite its meaningful heritage, Odyssée remains quite rare internationally, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with both cultural depth and uniqueness.

Odyssée

Ourson is a masculine name of French origin, literally meaning 'little bear' or 'bear cub.' It derives from the French word 'ours' (bear) with the diminutive suffix '-on.' This charming name carries associations of strength tempered with gentleness and playfulness. In French literature and folklore, bears often symbolize both power and a certain wild nobility. While quite rare even in French-speaking regions, Ourson has an appealing whimsical quality that connects to nature. The name appears in some French fairy tales, including as a character in Countess d'Aulnoy's 'The Story of Pretty Goldilocks.' For parents seeking a highly distinctive name with French flair and natural imagery, Ourson provides an unusual option with sweet, endearing connotations.

Ourson

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.

Othon

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This title of honor given to Charlemagne's twelve best knights would be prized as a name by most sword-loving little boys. 

Paladin

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 27)

270+ French Boy Names