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French Names that Start With P

  1. Papillon

    • Description:

      Papillon, meaning 'butterfly' in French, is a delicate and distinctive feminine name. Though primarily recognized as a dog breed (the French Papillon spaniel with butterfly-like ears), it has occasionally been adopted as a human name. The butterfly symbolism gives this name associations with transformation, beauty, and freedom. As a human name, Papillon remains extremely rare, appealing to parents drawn to unique French-derived names with clear natural imagery. The name's pronunciation (pap-ee-YON) adds to its exotic feel. While uncommon in mainstream usage, it shares qualities with other nature-inspired names like Mariposa or feminine French names.

  2. Prunelle

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "little plum"

    • Description:

      This sweet, fruity French name debuted in the American charts in 2020 (but dipped out again the following year). Although it's offbeat, the spunky nicknames Prue and Nell(ie) definitely work in its favor.
  3. Prewitt

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "brave little one"

    • Description:

      Common surname rarely used as a first.
  4. Prewdence

    • Description:

      Prewdence appears to be a variant spelling of Prudence, a feminine virtue name derived from Latin "prudentia" meaning "foresight" or "wisdom." The unusual spelling with "ew" instead of "u" creates a distinctive visual identity while retaining the traditional pronunciation. Prudence was popular among early Puritans as one of the cardinal virtues, representing careful management, practical wisdom, and discretion. While extremely rare in this spelling variation, the name carries the same dignified qualities as its traditional counterpart. Prewdence might appeal to parents seeking a virtue name with a unique spelling. The name suggests thoughtfulness, careful judgment, and moral fortitude, qualities valued across many cultures and time periods.

  5. Purvis

    • Origin:

      French and English

    • Meaning:

      "providing food"

    • Description:

      This spelling does not dispel the "perv" connection.
  6. Prew

    • Description:

      Prew is an uncommon feminine name with uncertain etymological origins. It may be a variant spelling of 'Prue,' which is a diminutive of Prudence, meaning 'caution' or 'discretion' from Latin 'prudentia.' Alternatively, it could be a surname-turned-first-name, as Prew appears as a family name in some English records. The name's brevity gives it a contemporary feel, aligning with the modern trend toward short, distinctive names. Prew remains extremely rare in usage, making it an unconventional choice that offers individuality. Its simple pronunciation and spelling contribute to its appeal for parents seeking something unique yet accessible.

  7. Proust

    • Origin:

      French literary name

    • Description:

      For remembrance of books past, Proust might be a meaningful middle name.
  8. Prudenzia

    • Description:

      Prudenzia is a feminine name of Latin origin, derived from 'prudentia' meaning 'wisdom,' 'foresight,' or 'good judgment.' It's a more elaborate form of the name Prudence, which was popular among Puritans for its virtue-signifying quality. Prudenzia carries an elegant, classical feel with its Italian or Spanish flair, particularly common in regions with strong Roman Catholic traditions. Though relatively rare in contemporary usage, the name appeals to parents drawn to vintage names with strong character associations. Prudenzia suggests a person of thoughtfulness, careful decision-making, and wisdom. The name's rich vowel sounds and melodic quality give it a sophisticated, timeless appeal despite its uncommon usage in modern naming practices.
  9. Perlette

    • Description:

      Perlette is a feminine name of French origin, derived from 'perle' meaning 'pearl.' It essentially translates to 'little pearl,' with the diminutive suffix '-ette' adding a delicate, endearing quality. This charming name evokes images of something precious, refined, and luminous. While never achieving mainstream popularity, Perlette has remained a distinctive choice for parents seeking something both elegant and uncommon. The name carries connotations of purity, rarity, and natural beauty, much like the gem it references. In French culture, pearls symbolize wisdom acquired through experience, giving the name an additional layer of significance beyond its aesthetic appeal.
  10. Pascasia

    • Description:

      Pascasia is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from 'Pascha' meaning 'Easter' or 'Passover.' It's the feminine form of Pascasius, traditionally given to children born during the Easter season. This name carries religious significance in Christian traditions, symbolizing renewal, rebirth, and spiritual awakening. Though rare in contemporary use, Pascasia has historical precedent, particularly in Catholic countries and communities. The name has a melodious quality with its flowing syllables and soft sounds. It offers parents seeking a distinctive religious name an option with deep historical roots. Pascasia might appeal to those drawn to vintage names with clear spiritual connections and a feminine, classical sound.
  11. Pierette

    • Origin:

      French, feminine diminutive of Peter

    • Description:

      Balletic, à la pirouette.
  12. Philomène

    • Description:

      Philomène is a feminine French name derived from Greek origins, meaning 'lover of strength' or 'loved one.' It combines 'philos' (loving) with 'menos' (strength, courage). This elegant name carries a distinctly French character with its accent and pronunciation (fee-lo-MEN). Popular in France during the 19th century, Philomène has a vintage, sophisticated quality that has seen occasional revivals among parents seeking names with historical depth. In Catholic tradition, Saint Philomena was a virgin martyr, adding religious significance for some families. Though not common in English-speaking countries, the name maintains steady usage in Francophone regions and appeals to parents drawn to names with classical roots and a melodious, feminine character.
  13. Pennelope

    • Description:

      Pennelope represents a modern spelling variation of the classic Greek name Penelope. While maintaining the pronunciation of the traditional form, this variant incorporates a doubled 'n,' giving it a distinctive appearance. The original name derives from Greek mythology, where Penelope was the faithful wife of Odysseus known for her cleverness and loyalty. This alternative spelling emerged from contemporary trends favoring unique renderings of traditional names. Though less common than the standard spelling, Pennelope offers the same rich mythological heritage and beloved nickname options like Penny. The name conveys intelligence and faithfulness through its classical associations while its modified spelling adds a touch of individuality for parents seeking a slightly unconventional choice.
  14. Placidie

    • Description:

      Placidie is a rare feminine name with French and Latin origins. It derives from the Latin name 'Placidius' (masculine form) or 'Placidia' (feminine form), stemming from the Latin word 'placidus' meaning 'calm,' 'quiet,' or 'gentle.' Historically, the name was associated with Galla Placidia, a significant 5th-century Roman empress. Placidie is more commonly found in French-speaking regions, particularly among families with connections to France or French colonial heritage. The name has never been popular in English-speaking countries, remaining a rare and distinctive choice. Those named Placidie might appreciate its elegant sound, peaceful meaning, and rich historical connections. The name suggests qualities of serenity, tranquility, and a composed demeanor—attributes many would find desirable in today's fast-paced world.
  15. Pernella

    • Origin:

      French, from Greek

    • Meaning:

      "rock"

    • Description:

      One of the least appealing of the ella-ending names, especially if you check pernicious in the dictionary.
  16. Prudentiane

    • Description:

      Prudentiane is an exceptionally rare feminine name derived from the Latin word 'prudentia,' meaning 'foresight,' 'wisdom,' or 'prudence.' It appears to be an elaborate variant of Prudence, extended with a French-influenced suffix. The name carries strong associations with the classical virtue of prudence—one of the four cardinal virtues in classical antiquity and Christian tradition. Prudentiane has a formal, almost regal quality with its multi-syllabic structure and elegant ending. The name has never been in common use, making it an extremely distinctive choice. While it might present some pronunciation challenges, Prudentiane offers the more accessible nickname options of Prue or Prudie. For parents seeking a name with classical roots and intellectual associations that remains genuinely unique, Prudentiane represents an uncommon treasure with substantial historical depth.

  17. Perette

    • Description:

      Perette is a delicate feminine name of French origin, representing the feminine form of Peter (Pierre in French). Derived from the Greek 'petros' meaning 'rock' or 'stone', it carries connotations of strength and steadfastness despite its gentle sound. Popular in medieval France, Perette has become quite rare in modern times, giving it a distinctive vintage charm. The name appears in historical French literature and folk tales, including as a character in La Fontaine's fables. With its subtle French elegance and two-syllable rhythm ending in the feminine '-ette' suffix, Perette offers an uncommon alternative to more widely used French names. It maintains an air of classic refinement while being virtually unique in contemporary usage.
  18. Platt

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "flat land"

    • Description:

      A surname with a lot of "juice," as they say, in Hollywood. In addition to veteran character actor Oliver Platt, there's La La Land producer Marc Platt and his actor son, Ben Platt, who won a Tony for Best Actor as the star of Broadway smash Dear Evan Hansen.
  19. Philippine

    • Origin:

      French, feminine variation of Philippe

    • Meaning:

      "lover of horses"

    • Description:

      Philippine might be taken as an ethnic identification rather than a name in the U.S. Philippa would be more easily understood, though if you don't mind eternally correcting people, Philippine can make an interesting alternative. Pippa can be a short form of Philippine as well as Philippa.
  20. Parc

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "park"

    • Description:

      Of course, you can just name him Park. But that's so pedestrian.