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.

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.

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

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

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, 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.

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.

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

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.

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

The chic French form of Frederick, Frédéric was popular in France in the middle of the 20th century. This is famously the French name of composer Frédéric Chopin (born Fryderyk Chopin).

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

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.

Fanchon is a sweet and affectionate Gallic choice.

Francois is the ultimate sophisticated French name.

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.

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.

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.