French Names that Start With I

Isabelle is the French variation of Isabel, which emerged in the Middle ages as an Occitan form of Elizabeth. Medieval queens Isabella of Angoulême and Isabella of France helped popularize the name in the United Kingdom. Isobel is the Scottish version, Isabella the Italian, and Izabel is used in Brazil.

Iolanthe is known primarily through the 1882 Gilbert & Sullivan operetta of that name, in which the title character is a fairy. Iolanthe is a softer version of Yolanda, and is the kind of multi-syllabic classical name once considered too weighty for a modern baby girl, but now within the realm of possibility--this one as a dramatic twist on Violet. The biggest drawback is its variety of legitimate pronunciations in English.

A simple name that's rising fast in the US, likely inspired by the popularity of Isla and Ayla. This streamlined form might appeal to those who like Ana, Ivy, and Ada, and it brings a multicultural element to the name.

A trendy name in France, sometimes also spelled Ysaline, that's related to both Isabelle and Iseult. To the American ear, it freshens up Isabelle without really improving on it.

With Isabel getting so popular, parents are searching for new varieties of the name, and Isabeau is one that makes a lovely French twist.

The rise of the the various Isabel names may give a boost to this variation, which has a sunny, springtime feel.

The Indre is a river in France. Spelled Indra, it's the name of a powerful deity worshipped by Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains — roughly the South Asian equivalent of the Greek Zeus or Norse Odin. But either Indra or Indre might make a simple, captivating, attractive name for a modern little girl.

Feels more modern than the Y version but also less authentic.

The I freshens up this name.

Isaï is a masculine name representing a variation of Isaiah, which comes from Hebrew origins meaning 'salvation of God' or 'God is salvation.' The name holds biblical significance as Isaiah was a major prophet in the Old Testament. This particular spelling, with the diaeresis over the 'i', reflects French or other European linguistic influences. Isaï maintains the spiritual depth of its biblical roots while offering a more distinctive international flair. The name has a melodic, flowing quality despite its brevity. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Isaï enjoys more recognition in French-speaking regions and among families seeking names with religious significance but contemporary appeal. The name conveys spirituality, wisdom, and cultural richness.

Ignace is the French form of Ignatius, derived from the Latin name Ignatius, which may come from the Roman family name Egnatius of Etruscan origin. The name gained prominence through St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuit order. Ignace combines religious heritage with a sophisticated French flair. While never extremely common, it has maintained steady usage particularly in French-speaking regions and Catholic communities. The name carries connotations of intellectual depth, spiritual devotion, and cultural refinement. Its pronunciation (roughly ee-NYASS) adds a melodic quality that distinguishes it from the more formal Ignatius while retaining its historical significance.

Ismâïl is a masculine name with deep roots in Islamic tradition, being the Arabic form of Ishmael. The name comes from Hebrew origins meaning 'God will hear' or 'God has hearkened.' In Islamic tradition, Ismâïl was the son of Ibrahim (Abraham) and is considered a prophet. The spelling with diacritical marks (the circumflex and diaeresis) reflects French transliteration conventions of Arabic names. Ismâïl has been borne by numerous significant historical figures, including caliphs, sultans, and modern political leaders across North Africa, the Middle East, and Muslim communities worldwide. The name remains popular in Muslim-majority countries and diaspora communities. It carries connotations of divine favor, perseverance, and spiritual heritage, reflecting the biblical and Quranic narratives associated with the figure.

Ismaël is the French and Arabic form of Ishmael, a name with deep biblical and Quranic significance. Derived from Hebrew origins, it means 'God will hear' or 'God has heeded.' In Islamic tradition, Ismaël is revered as the son of Ibrahim (Abraham) and is considered an important prophet. The name carries spiritual weight across multiple religions and cultures. The diaeresis over the 'e' distinguishes this variant, common in French-speaking regions and parts of the Middle East and North Africa. Ismaël has maintained consistent popularity in Muslim communities worldwide and in France, where it represents both religious heritage and multicultural identity. The name evokes themes of divine attention, spiritual legacy, and cultural richness.

Ide is a concise feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Irish tradition, it derives from the Gaelic 'Íde,' the Irish form of Ita, a revered 6th-century saint known as the 'foster mother of the saints of Ireland.' In Germanic contexts, Ide may be a shortened form of names containing the element 'id' meaning 'work' or 'labor.' The name also appears in Japanese culture with different meanings. This cross-cultural presence gives Ide a universal quality despite its brevity. The name's simplicity offers a minimalist elegance, with its single-syllable structure contrasting with today's trend toward longer names. Though uncommon in most Western countries, Ide provides a distinctive option for parents seeking a short, meaningful name with historical depth.

Illumination with a French accent.