​
​
Advanced Search

French Names that Start With F

Nameberry
By Nameberry
Updated Tue Oct 01 2024
  1. Francine

    • Origin:

      French diminutive pet form of Francoise

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  2. Fleur

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  3. Forest

    • Origin:

      French occupational name

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  4. Florin

    • Origin:

      French and Romanian

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  5. Faron

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  6. Fifi

    • Origin:

      French diminutive of Josephine, Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  7. Françoise

    • Origin:

      French variation of Frances

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  8. Fabienne

    • Origin:

      French variation of Fabia

    • Meaning:

      "bean grower"

    • Description:

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

    • Origin:

      Place-name

    • Description:

      This geographic name has lots of Gallic elan. France Nuyen is a French-Vietnamese actress who starred in the Broadway hit The World of Suzie Wong.
  10. Flavie

    • Origin:

      French variation of Flavia

    • Meaning:

      "golden, blond"

    • Description:

      That extra a adds a world of grace to this name.
  11. Fate

    • Origin:

      Short form of Lafayette, French, English word name

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  12. 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.
  13. Franchot

    • Origin:

      French variation of Francis

    • Description:

      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.
  14. François

    • Origin:

      French variation of Francis

    • Description:

      Francois is the ultimate sophisticated French name.
  15. Fayette

    • Origin:

      Short form of Lafayette, French

    • Meaning:

      "faith"

    • Description:

      Short form found in historical records, feels a tad feminine for modern times.
  16. Florent

    • Origin:

      French from Latin

    • Meaning:

      "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.
  17. Fort

    • Origin:

      French, English

    • Meaning:

      "strong; a protected building, a stronghold"

    • Description:

      A saints name and a word name, this is a modern, original way to convey a powerful meaning, especially in the middle place.
  18. Flaviere

    • Description:

      Flaviere is an uncommon feminine name with French-inspired roots. It appears to be a feminine derivative of names like Flavius or Flavia, which originate from the Latin "flavus" meaning "golden" or "yellow-haired." This connection gives Flaviere associations with golden beauty, sunshine, and warmth. The name has an elegant, sophisticated quality with its flowing sounds and French aesthetic. Despite its melodious appeal, Flaviere remains exceedingly rare in most countries, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking something truly unique. The name's rarity combined with its classical origins and pleasant pronunciation gives it a refined, aristocratic flair while maintaining a gentle femininity perfect for a modern girl.

  19. 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.
  20. Florentin

    • Description:

      Florentin is a masculine name with Latin origins, derived from the Roman family name 'Florentinus,' which means 'flowering' or 'flourishing.' It is related to the ancient Roman name Florentius and the city of Florence, Italy. The name carries connotations of prosperity, growth, and blossoming potential. Florentin is particularly popular in France, Romania, and other European countries, though it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking regions. Its elegant sound and positive associations make it an attractive choice for parents seeking a name with classical roots. Variations include Florent, Florian, and the feminine form Florentina.