French Names that Start With F
- Fleur
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"flower"Description:
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.
- Francine
Origin:
French diminutive pet form of FrancoiseMeaning:
"from France or free man"Description:
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.
- Forest
Origin:
French occupational nameMeaning:
"woodsman or woods"Description:
The Forest variation of Forrest, used by actor Whitaker, nudges the meaning more toward the woods and away from the woodsman.
- Fifi
Origin:
French diminutive of Josephine, HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
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.
- Florin
Origin:
French and RomanianMeaning:
"flower; flourishing"Description:
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.
- Faron
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"handsome servant"Description:
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.
- François
Origin:
French variation of FrancisDescription:
Francois is the ultimate sophisticated French name.
- Fate
Origin:
Short form of Lafayette, French, English word nameMeaning:
"faith; predestined, destiny, chance"Description:
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.
- Fabiola
Origin:
French, Spanish, Italian, and German variation of FabiaMeaning:
"bean grower"Description:
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.
- Florent
Origin:
French from LatinMeaning:
"flowering"Description:
Historically, the French and English name Florence was used for both sexes. And Florent is a steady classic in France, booming there in the 1980s. Maybe it's time to import it, and show that boys can be floral too.
- Flavie
Origin:
French variation of FlaviaMeaning:
"golden, blond"Description:
That extra a adds a world of grace to this name.
- Françoise
Origin:
French variation of FrancesMeaning:
"from France; free man"Description:
In France it's sometimes bestowed as a patriotic gesture; in English-speaking places it has an air of genteel sophistication.
- Filippa
Description:
Filippa is the feminine form of Philip, derived from the Greek name Philippos meaning 'lover of horses.' This elegant name has been used throughout Europe for centuries, particularly in Scandinavian countries, Italy, and Greece. While less common than the masculine Philip or feminine Philippa in English-speaking regions, Filippa offers a softer, more distinctly feminine sound with its ending in 'a.' The name carries connotations of nobility and classical heritage, as it has been borne by various historical figures and royalty across Europe. Filippa represents a beautiful option for parents seeking a name with historical depth and international recognition that still remains relatively uncommon and distinctive in many Western countries.
- Fabienne
Origin:
French variation of FabiaMeaning:
"bean grower"Description:
Instead of the usual French suspects -- Danielle, Isabelle, Gabrielle -- why not consider Fabienne, which is less common and just as pretty.
- Filia
Description:
Filia is a feminine name with Latin origins, directly translating to 'daughter.' This elegant name carries historical significance in Roman culture, where familial connections were emphasized through naming traditions. Throughout history, Filia has been used in various European countries, though it remains relatively uncommon as a given name. It has connections to the word 'filial,' relating to the relationship between parent and child. In modern usage, Filia appeals to parents seeking a name with classical roots and meaningful etymology. Its simplicity, combined with its profound meaning of family connection, gives Filia a timeless quality that transcends trends while remaining distinctive and sophisticated.
- Franchot
Origin:
French variation of FrancisDescription:
Old-time movie actor Franchot Tone (born Stanislas -- Franchot was his mother's maiden name) earned this name its own place in the book. An interesting, provocative choice.
- Ferrante
Description:
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.
- Fleurette
Description:
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.
- Favre
Origin:
French occupational nameMeaning:
"ironworker"Description:
Surname of a fifteenth-century saint and a twenty-first-century quarterback, Brett Favre.
- Felicienne
Description:
Felicienne is a feminine name of French origin, derived from the Latin 'felix' meaning 'happy,' 'fortunate,' or 'lucky.' It represents the feminine form of Felicien, with the additional '-ne' suffix creating an elegant, distinctly French quality. Though relatively uncommon even in French-speaking regions, Felicienne carries an air of sophistication and classical charm. The name enjoyed modest usage in France and French-speaking parts of Canada, particularly Quebec, but never achieved widespread popularity. Felicienne shares etymological roots with more common names like Felicity and Felicia. Those bearing this name might appreciate its positive meaning and refined sound, as well as its connection to French cultural heritage while maintaining a degree of uniqueness and distinction.
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