Fleur is a generic, delicate flower name that emigrated into the English-speaking world when John Galsworthy bestowed it on one of the Forsytes in his celebrated saga. More recently, there was Fleur Delacour, a French witch and the Beauxbatons champion for the Triwizard Tournament in Harry Potter.

Florin is one of the legion of names derived from the root word for flower, most of them like Flora and Florence used for girls. But the boys' form Florin is among the popular French names for boys, along with sister name Fleur for girls. There was a ninth century Swiss St. Florin. The related Florian was the name of a second century Roman saint.

With the advent of Pope Francis, all forms of this ancient and saintly name came up for a fresh look. Along with most other -een and -ine (when pronounced like -een) names for girls, Francine has a dated midcentury Mad Men feel. But its choice for their daughter by modern glamour couple Casey Neistat and Candice Pool, respectively a video star and a jewelry designer, has made Francine chic again.

The Forest variation of Forrest, used by actor Whitaker, nudges the meaning more toward the woods and away from the woodsman.

Faron, a soft and gentle name, has a diverse group of references. There was the medieval Saint Faron, Bishop of Meaux (who has given his name to a cheese); Faron Young, a colorful midcentury country singer known as The Hillbilly Heartthrob, and a character from The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.

Fabiola was the romantically elaborate name of a saint who organized the first hospice. Neither Fabiola nor Fabia appear on the most recent US extended list of names given to five or more babies, though Fabiana and Fabianna are both used.

Francois is the ultimate sophisticated French name.

In France it's sometimes bestowed as a patriotic gesture; in English-speaking places it has an air of genteel sophistication.

Instead of the usual French suspects -- Danielle, Isabelle, Gabrielle -- why not consider Fabienne, which is less common and just as pretty.

Félicité is a feminine French name derived from the Latin 'felicitas' meaning happiness, good fortune, or luck. This elegant name has deep historical roots, being popular among European nobility and appearing in literature and history. Félicité gained particular recognition through French novelist Gustave Flaubert's character Félicité in 'Un Coeur Simple.' The name carries a sophisticated, refined quality with its French pronunciation and accent mark. While consistently used in France throughout the centuries, it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving it an exotic appeal. Its meaning makes it attractive to parents seeking a name with positive connotations, while its French heritage adds cultural depth and elegance. The nickname Féli offers a more casual option for this otherwise formal name.

Briefly in the US Top 1000 in the late 19th century, Fate likely emerged as a short form for the old French name, Lafayette. In the contemporary landscape however, it may well be perceived as a word name among English speakers, akin to Destiny, Chance, Blessing, and Chosen. Around six boys are given the name Fate each year in the US, though 2023 saw it rise a little, with ten babies receiving the name.

Frostine, best known in the U.S. as the name of the Candyland queen, is newly fashionable in France and is certainly a choice that any little girl the world over would love. Fanciful, if over-the-top, but a perfect name for a winter baby girl.

Fleurette is a delicate feminine name of French origin, derived from 'fleur' meaning 'flower,' with the diminutive suffix '-ette' adding a sense of daintiness—essentially meaning 'little flower.' This charming name evokes images of springtime blossoms and carries a distinctly romantic, vintage French aesthetic. While never achieving widespread popularity, Fleurette has maintained a consistent presence as a rare and elegant choice. The name reached modest recognition in the early 20th century, particularly in French-speaking regions and among Francophiles. Fleurette offers a more elaborate and sophisticated alternative to the simpler Flora or Fleur. With its unmistakably French character and botanical associations, Fleurette remains a graceful option for parents drawn to names with European flair and natural beauty.

Fanchon is a sweet and affectionate Gallic choice.

There are plenty of French guys named Fabrice, but here, it sounds more like a laundry product.

Frédérique is a feminine French name derived from the Germanic name Friedrich, meaning "peaceful ruler" or "power of peace." It serves as the female equivalent of Frédéric (Frederick). The name carries an elegant, sophisticated quality with its French pronunciation and accent marks. Frédérique has been consistently used in French-speaking regions, particularly in France, Quebec, and Belgium, though it has never been among the most common names. It reached modest popularity in the mid-20th century. The name's international appeal comes from its beautiful sound and meaningful etymology. Frédérique offers a distinctly French option that travels well across borders while maintaining its cultural authenticity. The name suggests refinement and cultural awareness, appealing to parents seeking a name with European sophistication.

Fifi is a perfect name -- for a French poodle. But Fifi may seem more child-friendly as names like Coco and Lulu rise. Fifi in its fluffiness also balances the seriousness of such full names as Josephine or Federica.

Surname of a fifteenth-century saint and a twenty-first-century quarterback, Brett Favre.

Ferrante is a masculine Italian name derived from the Germanic elements 'fardi' meaning 'journey' and 'nand' meaning 'brave' or 'daring.' Historically, it was the Italian form of Ferdinand, a name borne by several European monarchs and nobles throughout history. Ferrante was particularly prominent in Renaissance Italy, especially in Naples where Ferrante I ruled as King in the 15th century. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, the name maintains steady usage in Italy and among Italian diaspora communities. It carries connotations of nobility, strength, and cultural heritage. The distinctive sound pattern with its rolling 'r' and melodic ending give Ferrante a sophisticated, classical feel that appeals to parents seeking a name with strong historical roots and Mediterranean flair.

Foulques is a masculine name of Old Germanic origin that came into prominence in medieval France. It derives from the Germanic element 'folk,' meaning 'people' or 'army.' Historically significant, the name was borne by several Counts of Anjou during the Middle Ages, including Foulques V who became King of Jerusalem during the Crusades. Despite its noble heritage, Foulques remains exceptionally rare outside of historical contexts and French genealogical records. The pronunciation (roughly 'Foolk') may present challenges in English-speaking regions. This name carries strong connections to medieval European history and French heritage, making it an erudite choice for parents interested in historical names. Its extreme rarity guarantees distinctiveness for any modern bearer.