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French Names that Start With C

  1. Claudien

    • Description:

      Claudien is a masculine name derived from the Roman family name Claudius, which comes from Latin 'claudus' meaning 'lame' or 'crippled.' It can be considered a French variant of Claude or an elaboration of the Latin name Claudianus. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Claudien has some usage in French-speaking regions and countries with French influence. The name carries an air of classical sophistication and historical significance, reminiscent of the Roman Empire. Claudien projects dignity and intellectualism, qualities associated with its ancient Roman roots. The name has remained relatively rare, allowing bearers to enjoy a distinctive identity without being too obscure.
  2. Chapin

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "clergyman"

    • Description:

      An undiscovered last-name-first option.
  3. Cheney

    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Chaney

    • Meaning:

      "oak tree"

    • Description:

      Strong, solid surname name. For many this name will be inextricably linked with former Vice President Dick Cheney - a hinderance or a virtue, depending on your political leanings.
  4. Candide

    • Origin:

      French from Latin

    • Meaning:

      "naive"

    • Description:

      French saintly name, used for both boys and girls. Although not common in France, it has been used in small numbers for boys in the 2010s and 2020s. Candide, in its sense as the French word for "naive", was the title character of a satirical novel by Voltaire.
  5. Cretien

    • Description:

      Cretien is a masculine name with French and Dutch origins, representing a variation of Christian. Derived from the Latin 'Christianus,' meaning 'follower of Christ,' this name has deep religious significance in Christianity. The spelling 'Cretien' reflects Old French influence and is related to Chrétien, a name known historically through the medieval French poet Chrétien de Troyes. Unlike the more common Christian or Christiaan, Cretien remains relatively rare, giving it a distinctive quality while maintaining its religious connotations. The name carries an air of medieval sophistication and literary connection, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with historical depth and European character.
  6. Candide

    • Origin:

      French from Latin

    • Meaning:

      "naive"

    • Description:

      The French version of Candida, and with no unfortunate medical connection, much more wearable. It has never been recorded in the US charts, but could be a charming alternative to names like Cosette, Celine, Celeste, or Constance. In France, although not common, it was used in small numbers in the 1970s and 1980s.
  7. 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.
  8. Curtis

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "courteous, polite"

    • Description:

      Best-selling Prep author Curtis Sittenfeld made this one of the many boy names for girls" gaining in popularity and acceptability.
  9. Christiane

    • Origin:

      German and French feminine form of Christian

    • Description:

      There are not one but two notable modern women with this name: journalist Christiane Amanpour and physician/author Christiane Northrup. In Germany, the pronunciation is kris-tee-AH-na while in France, it's kris-tee-AHN — and in the U.S., there's sure to be confusion. While Christiane is not stylish, it's a strong, attractive, unusual-though-familiar name.
  10. Cornelie

    • Description:

      Cornelie is a feminine name of Latin origin, representing the French and German feminine form of Cornelius. The name derives from the Roman clan name Cornelius, possibly relating to the Latin word "cornu" meaning "horn." Cornelie carries aristocratic associations in European history, particularly in French and German noble families from the medieval period through the 19th century. While relatively uncommon today, it maintains an elegant, classical quality that connects to European cultural heritage. The name has a refined sound with its soft ending, distinguishing it from the more commonly known Cornelia. Cornelie offers parents a sophisticated choice with historical depth while remaining recognizable despite its rarity.

  11. Cachet

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  12. Chambray

    • Origin:

      French word name

    • Meaning:

      "fabric with white weft and colored warp"

    • Description:

      Derived from French, Chambray is the name of a smooth, light, colored fabric, interwoven with white thread. It took its name from its place of origin, Cambrai (originally Cambray) in the north of France. The name of the place itself possibly comes from the Roman Camaracum meaning "property of Camarus", though it may also derive from the Gallic cambo meaning "that which is curved".
  13. Chréstien

    • Description:

      Chréstien is a masculine name of French origin, derived from the Latin 'Christianus,' meaning 'follower of Christ.' This particular spelling with the accent mark represents a traditional French orthography. The name gained some recognition through Chrétien de Troyes, the famous 12th-century French poet known for his Arthurian romances who helped shape the literary traditions of courtly love. Despite its historical significance, Chréstien remains quite rare as a given name today, even in French-speaking regions. The name carries cultural and religious connotations, potentially appealing to parents interested in French heritage or medieval literature. Its pronunciation (kray-TYEN) might present challenges in non-French speaking environments.
  14. Chaney

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "oak tree"

    • Description:

      An appealing surname-name that sounds perfectly feminine, unless you consider the association to Vice President Dick.
  15. Chrétien

    • Description:

      Chrétien is a masculine French name derived from the Latin 'Christianus,' meaning 'Christian' or 'follower of Christ.' This name carries religious significance and has historical importance in French culture. Notable bearers include medieval French poet Chrétien de Troyes, famous for his Arthurian romances. While uncommon in modern usage, even in French-speaking regions, the name maintains an air of literary sophistication and cultural heritage. The distinctive accent mark (é) gives it an unmistakably French character. Chrétien evokes classical education and refinement, appealing to parents drawn to names with historical depth and European elegance. Its rarity makes it a distinguished choice that connects to both religious tradition and French cultural legacy.

  16. 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.
  17. Chablis

    • Origin:

      French place- and wine name

    • Description:

      Chardonnay's twin sister.
  18. Capucine

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  19. 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.

  20. 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.