French Names that Start With C
- Chapin
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"clergyman"Description:
An undiscovered last-name-first option.
- Citron
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"lemon"Description:
A Gallic twist on a word or nature name, which has a nice lemony feel.
- Capucine
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"nasturtium"Description:
Capucine was a chic French actress half a century ago and has been one of the most fashionable girl names in France in recent decades, ranking in France's Top 100. Capucine is also popular in French-speaking Belgium. To Americans and other English speakers, this name still feels fresh -- so fresh that last year, no baby girls were named Capucine in the US.
- Calixte
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"most beautiful"Description:
French form of Callistus or Callixtus, borne by several popes and saints.
- Clémence
Description:
Clémence is a feminine French name derived from the Latin 'clementia' meaning 'mercy', 'mildness', or 'gentleness'. This elegant name carries connotations of compassion, forgiveness, and kind-heartedness. Popular in France and French-speaking regions, Clémence offers a sophisticated alternative to the English variant Clemency. The name has historical significance through several medieval noble figures, including Clémence of Hungary, Queen consort of France in the 12th century. The accent mark gives the name its distinctive French pronunciation (kleh-MAHNS), adding a touch of continental refinement. While never reaching widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, Clémence appeals to parents seeking a name with French cultural connections and positive virtuous associations. Its gentle sound balances beautifully with its strong meaning.
- Claudian
Description:
Claudian is a masculine name with ancient Roman roots, derived from the Latin name Claudius, meaning 'lame' or 'limping' - though this original meaning has long been divorced from the name's perception. Historically significant, the name recalls Claudian (Claudius Claudianus), a celebrated Latin poet who lived in the late 4th and early 5th centuries. The name carries a scholarly, classical air that evokes the grandeur of ancient Rome. While uncommon in modern usage, Claudian offers a distinguished alternative to the more familiar Claude or Claudio. Its literary and historical associations give it intellectual gravitas, potentially appealing to parents with an appreciation for classical culture or literature.
- Cabot
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"to sail"Description:
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.
- Cyrille
Origin:
French from LatinMeaning:
"lordly"Description:
A unisex French name, but you may want to simplify your son's life if you're English speakers by going with Cyril. It's an unusual enough name that it doesn't need further complications of spelling and pronunciation.
- Cable
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"rope"Description:
Drop the C and arrive at an established biblical name.
- Colombe
Description:
Colombe is a delicate French feminine name meaning 'dove,' symbolizing peace, purity, and gentleness. Derived from the Latin 'columba,' this name has been used in France since medieval times, often associated with Christian symbolism as the dove represents the Holy Spirit. Saint Columba was a notable 6th-century Irish missionary. The name gained particular significance in France after World War II when the dove became an important peace symbol. Though never extremely common, Colombe carries an elegant, refined quality that appeals to those with French heritage or an appreciation for French culture. The name remains a timeless choice that balances traditional roots with a distinctive, melodic sound that's recognizable yet rarely encountered.
- Célina
Description:
Célina is a feminine name with French linguistic roots, representing a variant spelling of Celina or Selina. The name likely derives from the Greek 'Selene,' goddess of the moon, giving it celestial associations. The acute accent over the 'é' emphasizes the French pronunciation (say-LEE-na) and adds a touch of elegance. While popular in French-speaking regions including France, Quebec, and parts of Switzerland, Célina maintains a moderate presence internationally. The name carries a delicate, refined quality characteristic of French nomenclature. Similar forms appear across multiple languages, including the Italian Celina and Spanish Selina, though the accented version distinctly signals its French heritage. Parents are often drawn to Célina for its graceful sound, cultural sophistication, and subtle connection to lunar symbolism.
- Corneille
Description:
Corneille is a French masculine name derived from the Latin 'Cornelius,' which was a prominent Roman family name. The name gained particular distinction in France through Pierre Corneille, a celebrated 17th-century French playwright who was a foundational figure in French tragic drama. Historically, the name carries associations with nobility and literary accomplishment. While common in French-speaking regions and countries with French cultural influence, Corneille remains relatively rare in English-speaking countries, giving it an air of sophistication and uniqueness. The name typically pronounced 'kor-NAY' in French, carries melodic qualities and cultural richness that connect bearers to both Roman heritage and French artistic tradition.
- Curtis
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"courteous, polite"Description:
Best-selling Prep author Curtis Sittenfeld made this one of the many boy names for girls" gaining in popularity and acceptability.
- Clairette
Description:
Clairette is a feminine name of French origin, functioning as a diminutive of Claire (meaning 'clear' or 'bright' from Latin 'clarus'). The suffix '-ette' adds a touch of delicacy and charm, typical of French feminine diminutives. Beyond its use as a personal name, Clairette is also known as a variety of white wine grape grown primarily in southern France. The name evokes qualities of clarity, brightness, and refinement with its French styling. While never achieving widespread popularity outside of French-speaking regions, Clairette carries an elegant, sophisticated air that appeals to those drawn to names with French flair. The name suggests a personality that is illuminating, pure, and graceful, with the diminutive form adding a note of endearing sweetness.
- Chandelle
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"candle"Description:
Sounds classy...but isn't.
- Chaney
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"oak tree"Description:
Beautiful meaning for parents fond of nature-themed names that are a little less obvious. Actor Chaney Kley was one famous bearer of this surname-name.
- Cinderella
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"little ash-girl"Description:
One familiar name never used for real people, for obvious reasons. Read more about Cinderella and other Disney Princess Names in our featured blog.
- Claudie
Origin:
French feminine variation of ClaudeDescription:
Attractive form still très Parisienne.
- Cachet
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"prestigious, desirable"Description:
Cachet is one of those word names -- Cliché is the most egregious example -- that sounds lovely but seems slightly ridiculous when taken literally.
- Coty
Origin:
French surnameDescription:
Cosmetic reinvention of Cody.
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