French Names that Start With D
- Demetre
Description:
Demetre is a masculine name of Greek origin, a variant of Demetrius, which derives from Demeter, the Greek goddess of agriculture and harvest. This name carries connotations of fertility and abundance. Throughout history, Demetre has been particularly common in Eastern European countries, especially Georgia, where it's considered a traditional name. In Western countries, it remains relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality. The name has maintained steady but modest usage, appealing to parents seeking a name with classical roots yet uncommon presence. Demetre combines sophistication with a slight exotic quality, and bearers of this name might appreciate its connection to ancient mythology and cultural heritage.
- Dougray
Origin:
French surnameDescription:
Scottish actor Dougray (born Stephen) Scott made us aware of this name when he took on his French grandmother's surname as his stage name.
- Diggory
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"Lost one"Description:
This buoyant name has the same bouncy rhythm as Rafferty and Barnaby, but is virtually unused. It has plenty of literary cred, too: characters in The Chronicles of Narnia, Harry Potter and Thomas Hardy’s The Return of the Native have all borne the name.
- Drury
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"dear one, sweetheart"Description:
Rhythmic and energetic, Drury is of French origin, with the wonderful meaning of "dear one, sweetheart."
- Descartes
Origin:
French surnameMeaning:
"dweller at the outskirts of town"Description:
Highly unlikely philosophical choice.
- Dione
Description:
Dione is a masculine name with ancient Greek origins, though it's sometimes used for females as well. In Greek mythology, Dione was a Titaness who, in some accounts, was the mother of Aphrodite with Zeus. The name derives from 'Dios,' relating to Zeus or the divine. Despite its mythological weight, Dione has never been widely popular for boys but occasionally appears in classical or literary-minded families. It has a melodic quality with its flowing sounds and simple pronunciation. The name carries an air of classical sophistication and mythological significance. For male bearers, it offers a rare and distinctive option with historical depth. Its connection to ancient deities gives it a sense of strength and timelessness that appeals to parents drawn to names with mythological backgrounds.
- Denney
Description:
Denney is a masculine name typically functioning as a variant spelling of Denny, which originated as a diminutive form of Dennis or a surname derived from the same source. Dennis comes from the Greek name Dionysios, meaning 'of Dionysos,' the god of wine, fertility, and theater in Greek mythology. This particular spelling gives the nickname a more distinctive appearance while maintaining the familiar sound. Denney has appeared occasionally as a given name throughout the 20th century in English-speaking countries but remains relatively uncommon. The name has a friendly, unpretentious quality with its casual sound and approachable nature. It carries vintage appeal connected to the mid-century popularity of Dennis while offering a slightly unique variant. Denney works well as both a given name and nickname, providing versatility for parents attracted to its informal charm.
- Dariela
Origin:
Feminine variation of Darrell, FrenchMeaning:
"dear one, beloved"Description:
Dariela may have a not-quite-authentic provenance, but it's a pretty name and an unusual choice in the girly Isabella-Gabriella group.
- Dior
Origin:
French surnameMeaning:
"golden"Description:
Dior has joined Chanel and Armani on the fashionista hit parade of names, appealing due to its designer quality, its succinct sound, and contemporary air. Nearly 400 baby girls were named Dior in the US last year.
- Denver
Origin:
English or French place-name and surnameMeaning:
"green valley or from Anvers"Description:
Yet another creative character name from Toni Morrison, Denver was a daughter of Sethe's in the novel Beloved. Today Denver is most familiar as the name of the largest city in Colorado, used almost equally for girls and boys.
- Dulé
Origin:
French, meaning unknownDescription:
Talented Jamaican-American actor Dule (born Karim Dule) Hill introduced this name, suggested by an aunt who'd heard it in France. Pronounced doo-lay.
- Davide
Description:
Davide is the Italian form of David, a masculine name with Hebrew origins meaning 'beloved' or 'favorite one.' This variant maintains the biblical connection to King David while adding a distinctly Italian flair with its three-syllable pronunciation (dah-VEE-deh). Particularly popular in Italy and Italian-speaking regions of Switzerland, Davide has a rich history dating back centuries. The name carries the same prestigious biblical legacy as David but with a more melodic Mediterranean sound. While less common in English-speaking countries, Davide has gained some international recognition through Italian cultural exports, including arts, fashion, and sports. The name conveys strength, creativity, and leadership—qualities associated with the biblical figure.
- Domitille
Origin:
French feminine variation of Roman family name Domitius, LatinMeaning:
"tamed"Description:
Domitille is the French form of the ancient royal name Domitilla. Domitille is used today, and was in the French Top 500 during the 2000s. While English speakers might say it as dom-ih-till or dom-ih-teel, in French, it would be DAW-MEE-TEE. Either way, it could be an interesting way to nickname Dottie.
- Danette
Description:
Danette is a feminine name of French origin, functioning as a diminutive form of Dana or Danielle, which themselves derive from the masculine Daniel, meaning "God is my judge" in Hebrew. Popular primarily during the 1950s and 1960s in the United States, Danette exemplifies the trend of creating feminine names by adding the French-inspired suffix "-ette" to create a delicate, feminine variation. The name has a vintage charm that evokes mid-century aesthetics. While its popularity has declined since its peak, Danette maintains appeal for those drawn to retro names or seeking to honor relatives from that era. The name carries a gentle sophistication with its French styling while maintaining familiar roots.
- Dabney
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"from Aubigny"Description:
Dapper-sounding choice with old American roots (Dabney Cosby was a 19th century Virginian architect who worked with Thomas Jefferson on some of that state's most iconic buildings). Dabney Montgomery was Martin Luther King Jr's bodyguard, giving this name yet more American history depth. Dab is a sweet nickname option for this name.
- Darrell
Origin:
English from Norman FrenchMeaning:
"dear one, beloved"Description:
Once exclusively male name, Daryl Hannah made the Darrell spelling just as appropriate for girls -- and maybe even more feminine than masculine these days.
- Delmore
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"of the sea"Description:
An undiscovered gem with clunky, buttoned-up appeal and a literary feel thanks to poet Delmore Schwartz.
- D'artagnan
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"from Artagnan"Description:
The least usable of the Three Musketeers names.
- Desirée
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"desired"Description:
Desired and chosen by many, despite (or because of) its blatantly sensual image.
- Dulcet
Description:
Dulcet is an unusual feminine name derived from the Latin word 'dulcis,' meaning sweet or pleasant. While primarily known as an adjective describing something melodious or soothing to the ear, Dulcet's use as a given name is extremely rare. The name evokes qualities of gentleness, harmony, and a pleasant disposition. As a name, it carries musical connotations, suggesting someone with a sweet voice or artistic sensibilities. Dulcet has never appeared in popular name rankings, making it an extraordinarily distinctive choice. The name's literary quality gives it an elegant, sophisticated character that might appeal to parents seeking something genuinely unique. Though uncommon as a name, its meaning is immediately accessible, conveying sweetness and melodious charm.