French Names that Start With B
- Bénédicte
Description:
Bénédicte is a feminine French name derived from the Latin name Benedicta, the female form of Benedictus, meaning 'blessed.' The name carries the same linguistic roots as Benedict and Benedetta, all stemming from the Latin words 'bene' (well) and 'dicere' (to speak). The accent marks in Bénédicte guide its traditional French pronunciation. Popular in France, Belgium, and other French-speaking regions, the name has historical connections to religious traditions through Saint Benedict and has been used since medieval times. Bénédicte projects an image of elegance and refinement while maintaining its spiritual meaning. Though less common outside Francophone countries, it offers a sophisticated alternative to the more widely used Benedetta or Benedicta for parents seeking a name with French flair and meaningful origins.
- 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.
- Bernardin
Description:
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.
- Bernardene
Description:
Bernardene is a feminine name derived from Bernard, which has Germanic origins meaning 'brave as a bear' or 'strong, bold bear.' This elaborated feminine form adds a gentle, flowing quality to the strong root name. While Bernard has been a traditionally popular masculine name throughout European history, Bernardene is considerably rarer. It shares origins with variants like Bernadette, which gained recognition through St. Bernadette of Lourdes. Bernardene peaked in modest usage during the mid-20th century but remains uncommon today. The name combines strength and femininity, offering the powerful meaning of its root while the '-ene' suffix adds a delicate touch. Parents might choose Bernardene for its classic origins paired with its distinctive, uncommon nature.
- Bayless
Origin:
French occupational nameMeaning:
"bailiff"Description:
Offers much less than Bay.
- Benadette
Description:
Benadette is a feminine name that serves as a variant of the more common Bernadette, which originated from the Germanic masculine name Bernard, meaning "brave as a bear." The alteration from "r" to "n" gives Benadette a softer pronunciation while maintaining the recognizable connection to its origin. Bernadette gained significant popularity after the apparitions at Lourdes, France, where Saint Bernadette Soubirous reported seeing visions of the Virgin Mary in 1858. The Benadette variation is considerably less common, offering a unique alternative while preserving the melodic quality of the traditional name. Though rare in usage statistics, Benadette appeals to parents who appreciate the heritage and feminine qualities of Bernadette but desire a subtle distinction in spelling and pronunciation.
- Berenicia
Description:
Berenicia is a rare feminine name with ancient roots, believed to be derived from the ancient Macedonian city of Berenice, which was named after Berenice I, queen of Egypt. The name ultimately comes from the Greek "Berenike," combining "phere" (to bring) and "nike" (victory), meaning "she who brings victory." Berenicia represents an elaborated form of this historical name, adding a flowing, romantic quality with its additional syllables. Despite its regal heritage, Berenicia has remained exceptionally uncommon in modern times, making it a distinctive choice. The name carries an air of classical elegance and exotic mystery while maintaining feminine grace, appealing to parents seeking a name with historical depth and uniqueness.
- Bevis
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"from Beauvais"Description:
An English surname derived from the French place name Beauvais, which in turn comes from the name of an ancient Gaulish tribe, the Bellovaci.
- Baie
Description:
Baie is a rare feminine name with possible origins in Old French, where it could be derived from 'baie' meaning 'bay' or 'berry.' It might also have Celtic roots or be a variant of Bay or Baye. The name conveys a connection to nature and carries a simple, elegant quality. Baie has remained extremely uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a short, unique name with natural associations. Its brevity and soft sound give it a delicate, modern appeal despite its potential ancient origins. The name may also be used in some cultures as a nickname or diminutive form.
- Bartholome
Description:
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.
- Bernardine
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"brave as a bear"Description:
Bernardine is really driving home its Bernard connection, for better or worse. Bernadine is the usual form of this name.
- Bechette
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"little spade"Description:
Pronounced Beshette, this unfamiliar French appellation sounds fresh and feminine.
- Bibiane
Description:
Bibiane is a feminine name of French origin, derived from the Latin name Viviana, meaning 'alive' or 'full of life.' The name has roots in early Christianity through Saint Bibiana (or Viviana), a 4th-century Roman martyr. While more common in French-speaking regions, particularly Quebec and parts of Europe, Bibiane remains relatively rare in English-speaking countries. The name has a delicate, antique quality with its soft consonants and flowing syllables. Bibiane offers an elegant alternative to the more familiar Vivian or Vivienne, while maintaining the same life-affirming meaning. Its classic origins combined with its uncommon usage give it both historical depth and distinctiveness.
- Berthe
Description:
Berthe is a feminine name of Germanic origin, derived from the name Bertha, which means 'bright' or 'famous'. It was quite popular among European nobility during the Middle Ages, notably carried by Berthe of Burgundy, queen of France in the 10th century. The name saw modest popularity in France and other European countries throughout history but has declined in usage during the 20th century. In the United States, Berthe has never been among the most common names, remaining a distinctive choice with vintage charm. Today, it's considered a classic name with historical roots, occasionally chosen by parents seeking a traditional European name with elegant flair.
- Brunette
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"woman with brown hair"Description:
Brunette is an unusual feminine name derived from the French word for a woman with brown hair. While more commonly recognized as a descriptive term rather than a given name, it has occasionally been used as a female name throughout history, particularly in French-speaking regions or among families with French heritage.