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French Names that Start With B

  1. 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.
  2. Barthélemy

    • Description:

      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.
  3. Bertille

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "heroine, bright maiden"

    • Description:

      The name of medieval French saint, similar to Sally Field's name, Bertrille, on the old The Flying Nun sitcom, leading some to expect the word "Sister" in front of it.
  4. Bechet

    • Origin:

      French surname

    • Description:

      Woody Allen used this name for his daughter to honor jazz hero Sidney Bechet -- and it could work for a boy as well.
  5. Benilde

    • Origin:

      French variation of Latin

    • Meaning:

      "good"

    • Description:

      The strong and unusual name of a medieval (male) saint and a contemporary (female) novelist, Benilde Little.
  6. 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.
  7. Bouvier

    • Origin:

      French occupational name

    • Meaning:

      "herdsman"

    • Description:

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

    • Description:

      Bernelle is a feminine name that appears to be a decorative elaboration of Bernie or Bernadette, names ultimately derived from Germanic roots meaning 'brave as a bear.' The addition of the feminine '-elle' suffix gives it a French-inspired flair and elegant quality. Bernelle has never been widely used, remaining a rare choice throughout recorded naming history. This scarcity gives it a distinctive charm for those seeking something truly uncommon. The name balances strength (from its Germanic origins) with grace (through its French-sounding ending). Those named Bernelle likely experience having a name that stands out while still being relatively easy to pronounce and understand. The name might appeal to parents looking to honor a relative named Bernard or Bernadette while creating something more distinctly feminine.

  9. Burgundy

    • Origin:

      French place-name; also color name

    • Description:

      It's a place. It's a wine. It's a color. -- no wonder trend-heavy Burgundy's been discovered as a name.
  10. 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.
  11. 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.
  12. 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.
  13. Bernardine

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  14. 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.

  15. 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.