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French Names that Start With L

  1. Loire

    • Origin:

      French river and region name

    • Description:

      The lovely sound and image of the French river and lush valley would make this a most distinctive and captivating choice. Pronunciation: low-ahr.
  2. Lanier

    • Origin:

      French occupational name

    • Meaning:

      "wool worker"

    • Description:

      The fashionable occupational last name category gets some French flair with this, Tennessee Williams's middle name.
  3. Lilas

    • Description:

      Lilas is a delicate feminine name derived from the French word for 'lilac,' the fragrant purple flowering shrub. This nature-inspired name carries the gentle, sweet associations of the lilac flower, which symbolizes spring, renewal, and first love in many cultures. While not extremely common internationally, Lilas has maintained steady usage in France and Lebanon, and among Arabic speakers (where it's pronounced LEE-las). The name has a soft, melodic quality with its repeated 'l' sounds and final 's' that is pronounced in French. Lilas offers a subtle alternative to more common floral names like Lily or Rose, while still evoking natural beauty and feminine grace.

  4. Léonie

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "lion"

    • Description:

      Leona with a French accent that gives it a bit more flair. It's currently very popular there – in the Top 30 for French baby girls.
  5. Lazare

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "God is my helper"

    • Description:

      This is the French form of Lazarus, which recently has been rising from the dead – it's popular on Nameberry, and was used for his son by musician Trent Reznor. Lazare might be familiar to some via the Gare Saint-Lazare train station in Paris.
  6. Lafayette

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "faith"

    • Description:

      Foppish name with a distinguished forebear, French general Marquis de Lafayette, who fought in the American Revolution. It accounts for the L in L. Ron Hubbard. Old-time short form: Fayette or Fate.
  7. Leelee

    • Origin:

      Short form of Liliane

    • Meaning:

      "lily"

    • Description:

      Actress Leelee Sobieski's real name is Liliane, after her French grandmother -- a better choice for any baby-namer.
  8. Léandre

    • Description:

      Léandre is a masculine name of Greek origin, derived from the mythological figure Leander who swam across the Hellespont nightly to visit his beloved Hero. The name combines the Greek elements 'leon' meaning 'lion' and 'andros' meaning 'man,' suggesting strength and courage. Particularly popular in French-speaking regions and Quebec, Léandre carries a sophisticated European flair with its accent mark. The name has classical roots while maintaining a contemporary feel. Though not common in English-speaking countries, it has steady popularity in Francophone areas. Léandre offers a distinguished alternative to more common names while providing the friendly nickname Leo or Léo. Its mythological associations add depth and romantic significance.
  9. Louisiana

    • Origin:

      French place-name

    • Description:

      Louisiana is a geographic spin on the Louise theme. Pretty, if a bit of a syllable overload. Short form Lou or Lulu lightens it.
  10. Lizette

    • Origin:

      French, diminutive of Elizabeth

    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God"

    • Description:

      Whether you spell it Lisette or Lizette, a somewhat dated diminutive that nevertheless retains some charm.
  11. Lionellu

    • Description:

      Lionellu is a masculine name that appears to be a variant or diminutive form of Lionel, possibly from Sardinian or Italian dialectal origins. The base name Lionel derives from Latin 'leonellus,' meaning 'young lion,' symbolizing courage and strength. This particular variant with the '-u' ending suggests regional linguistic influences, most likely from Mediterranean island cultures where such name modifications are common. While extremely rare in mainstream usage, Lionellu carries the same noble associations as Lionel, which gained prominence through literary works and historical figures. The name evokes qualities of bravery, leadership, and natural dignity. For parents with connections to specific Mediterranean cultural traditions, particularly Sardinian or southern Italian, Lionellu might represent a way to honor those roots while bestowing a name with powerful symbolic meaning.
  12. Lemar

    • Description:

      Lemar appears to have multiple possible origins. It could be a variant of Lamar, which itself may derive from French geographic place names (such as the French municipality La Mar) or from the French 'la mer' meaning 'the sea.' Alternatively, it might represent a variant spelling of Leomer or Leomaris, which have Latin roots. The name has been in use in various regions including Europe and North America. Lemar gained some visibility in the early 2000s through British singer Lemar Obika, who goes by the mononym Lemar. The name has maintained modest but consistent usage across different communities. Its appeal may stem from its melodic quality and versatility across different language contexts. Spelling variations include Lamar, Leomar, and Lamor, with each having slightly different usage patterns and regional preferences.
  13. Leonila

    • Description:

      Leonila is a masculine name of Spanish origin, though it is more commonly used as a feminine name in many cultures. Derived from 'Leon,' meaning 'lion,' it carries connotations of strength and courage. The suffix '-ila' adds a diminutive or endearing quality to the powerful root. While rare as a masculine name in English-speaking countries, it has historical usage in Hispanic communities. Leonila combines melodic qualities with a strong etymological foundation, creating a name that's both distinctive and meaningful. The name may also have connections to Saint Leonilla, though the masculine usage represents a modern adaptation. Despite its low popularity rankings among male names, Leonila offers a unique option for parents seeking a distinctive name with classical roots.
  14. Lac

    • Description:

      Lac is an uncommon masculine name with minimalist appeal. Likely derived from French or Vietnamese origins, it carries different meanings depending on the cultural context. In French, 'lac' means 'lake,' suggesting tranquility and natural beauty. In Vietnamese tradition, Lạc can refer to ancient Vietnamese people or convey meanings related to enjoyment or happiness. This brief, one-syllable name has a strong, distinctive sound that makes it memorable despite its simplicity. The name's rarity makes it stand out in most communities, appealing to parents seeking something truly unique. Its cross-cultural potential gives it versatility, while its brevity makes it easily pronounceable in many languages. Lac combines ancient heritage with modern minimalism, offering a name that is both distinctive and meaningful.

  15. Laure

    • Origin:

      French form of Laura, English from Latin

    • Meaning:

      "from Laurentum or bay laurel"

    • Description:

      Laure is a feminine French name derived from the Latin 'laurus,' meaning 'laurel tree' - a symbol of victory and honor in ancient times. It functions as both a standalone name and the French form of Laura. Elegant and understated, Laure has maintained consistent usage in France and French-speaking regions while remaining relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries.
  16. Lucrèce

    • Description:

      Lucrèce is a feminine French name derived from the Latin 'Lucretia.' It has ancient Roman roots, referring to a noblewoman in Roman history whose tragic fate influenced the establishment of the Roman Republic. The name suggests nobility, virtue, and moral strength. The French spelling with the grave accent adds a touch of elegance and cultural refinement. While never extremely common, Lucrèce has maintained a presence in French-speaking countries, particularly among families with appreciation for classical culture. The name carries literary and historical associations, as it was featured in works by Shakespeare and other notable writers.
  17. Lucinde

    • Description:

      Lucinde is a feminine name with French and Latin origins, derived from Lucinda or directly from Latin 'lux' meaning 'light.' This elegant variation carries a slightly more European flair than the more common Lucinda, with its softened ending. Historically, the name appeared in literary works, including Molière's plays, giving it cultural and artistic associations. While never achieving widespread popularity, Lucinde maintains an aristocratic, refined quality that appeals to parents seeking something distinctive yet classically grounded. The name suggests brilliance, clarity, and illumination through its connection to light. Its melodic three-syllable structure flows gracefully in pronunciation while offering a subtle uniqueness in spelling that distinguishes it from more familiar feminine names with similar sounds.
  18. Lionel

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "young lion"

    • Description:

      Lionel is yet another traditional boy's name entering the girls' column--at least once-- via prizewinning novelist Lionel (born Margaret Ann) Shriver.
  19. Léonette

    • Description:

      Léonette is a delicate feminine name with French origins, formed as a diminutive of Léonie, which itself derives from the Latin name Leo meaning 'lion.' The addition of the suffix '-ette' creates a meaning along the lines of 'little lioness,' giving the name a combination of strength and grace. While relatively uncommon, Léonette carries an elegant, sophisticated quality characteristic of French naming traditions. The accent mark over the 'é' emphasizes its French heritage and pronunciation. This name would be more frequently encountered in French-speaking regions or among families with French cultural connections, though it remains a distinctive choice that combines classical roots with a touch of refinement.
  20. Laurette

    • Description:

      Laurette is a delicate feminine name of French origin, functioning as a diminutive of Laura or Lauren. Derived from the Latin 'laurus' meaning 'laurel tree' or 'sweet bay tree,' the laurel wreath has historically been a symbol of victory and honor in classical antiquity. The addition of the feminine French suffix '-ette' gives it a particularly dainty and graceful quality. Laurette enjoyed some popularity in France throughout history and saw limited usage in the United States during the early 20th century. Though uncommon today, it maintains a timeless charm with its melodic sound and cultural heritage. The name evokes images of artistic French culture and carries a soft, romantic quality.

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