French Names that Start With S

  1. Sandrine
    • Origin:

      French variation of Alexandra
    • Description:

      Sophisticated French choice. Or toxic petrochemical.
  2. Silvester
    • Origin:

      Latin, "wood, forest"
    • Meaning:

      "wood, forest"
    • Description:

      More commonly spelled as Sylvester in English speaking countries, Silvester is closer to its Latin origins silva . Sharing a root with Silas, Sylvia, and Sylvie, this form saw occasional use in the US in the early 20th century, and may be used in Slavic countries, such as Czechia and Slovakia
  3. Seraph
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "the burning one"
    • Description:

      A seraph is a heavenly, angelic being from Ancient Jewish scripture. The Hebrew word literally translates to "the burning one." It can also be considered a diminutive of the name Seraphim.
  4. Soutine
    • Origin:

      French artist name
    • Description:

      Creative choice relating to the Lithuanian-born expressionist painter known for his bold, vibrantly colored canvases.
  5. Sidony
    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Sidonie
    • Description:

      Sidony and its mother name Sidonie are unusual and attractive French girls' names, with a fresher feel than the fading Sydney.
  6. Siffre
    • Description:

      Siffre is an extremely rare masculine name that likely derives from a surname of French origin. It may be related to or derived from the Old French name 'Siffrid' or 'Siegfried,' which has Germanic roots meaning 'victory' and 'peace.' The name gained some recognition through Labi Siffre, a British poet, singer-songwriter, and musician known for his work in the 1970s and his influence on later musicians. As a first name, Siffre remains highly unusual, offering a distinctive choice with artistic associations. The French pronunciation would place emphasis on the second syllable, giving it an elegant, sophisticated sound quality that balances uniqueness with cultural heritage.
  7. Sybille
    • Description:

      Sybille is a feminine name of Greek origin, representing a French and German variation of Sibyl. In ancient Greece, sibyls were women believed to possess prophetic powers and served as oracles. The name carries connotations of wisdom, foresight, and mysterious knowledge. This continental European spelling gives the name an elegant, sophisticated quality compared to the more anglicized Sibyl or Sybil. Popular in French-speaking regions and Germany, Sybille combines ancient mystique with refined European charm. The name experienced modest popularity throughout the 20th century but remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, making it an intriguing choice for parents seeking a name with classical roots and international appeal.
  8. Sarette
    • Description:

      Sarette is an uncommon feminine name with likely French origins, possibly functioning as a diminutive form of Sara/Sarah (Hebrew for 'princess') with the French diminutive suffix '-ette,' meaning 'little Sara.' Alternatively, it could relate to the French word 'soirée' meaning 'evening' or 'party.' The name has a delicate, refined quality typical of French-influenced names. While rare in mainstream usage, Sarette occasionally appears in French-speaking regions and among families seeking distinctive names with European flair. The name's soft consonants and flowing quality give it an elegant, feminine sound. Sarette might appeal to parents looking for something uncommon but with familiar elements, providing the benefit of uniqueness while maintaining some connection to the more traditional Sarah family of names.
  9. Squire
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "esquire"
    • Description:

      Conjures up a tweedy English country gentleman with a large paunch.
  10. Sévère
    • Origin:

      French form of Severus, Latin
    • Meaning:

      "stern"
    • Description:

      Serious and sharp, but with a hint of flair, Sévère is a French form of the Latin Severus. It appeared in the French Top 500 a few times in the first half of the 20th century.
  11. Seva
    • Description:

      Seva is a feminine name with multicultural origins and rich spiritual significance. In Sanskrit, "seva" means "selfless service" or "devotion," representing acts of kindness without expectation of reward. The name also appears in Slavic languages, particularly Russian, where it functions as a diminutive of Vsevolod, meaning "ruler of all." Seva's simplicity gives it a modern, minimalist appeal despite its ancient roots. Though uncommon in Western countries, it has gained modest recognition among parents seeking names with spiritual meaning or cross-cultural significance. The name's brevity, easy pronunciation, and meaningful connotations make it accessible while remaining distinctive. Seva carries beautiful associations with compassion, generosity, and humanitarian values.
  12. Silvestre
    • Description:

      Silvestre is a masculine name with Latin origins, derived from 'silva' meaning 'forest' or 'woodland.' The name essentially translates to 'from the forest' or 'wild,' conveying a natural, untamed quality. Popular in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries, Silvestre has ancient roots, notably carried by Pope Saint Sylvester I in the 4th century. The name maintains steady usage in Latin American countries, Spain, and Portugal, though it remains less common in English-speaking regions. It experienced modest peaks of popularity in the early 20th century and has seen periodic revivals. Parents may be drawn to Silvestre for its melodic quality, connection to nature, and cross-cultural appeal. The name carries a sophisticated European flair while evoking imagery of natural strength and wilderness.
  13. Salaun
    • Description:

      Salaun is a masculine name with Breton origins, from the northwestern region of France. This distinctive name derives from the Breton word 'sal' meaning 'hall' or 'manor,' suggesting noble heritage. Historically, it was associated with Saint Salaun, a simple holy man from medieval Brittany, giving the name religious significance. Salaun has remained relatively uncommon outside of Brittany and French cultural contexts, making it an distinctive choice that carries cultural heritage. The name has a melodious quality when pronounced in the traditional Breton manner, with emphasis on the second syllable. For parents with Breton ancestry or those seeking a unique name with historical depth, Salaun offers cultural richness and distinction while remaining accessible in pronunciation.
  14. Salinger
    • Origin:

      French, Saint Léger
    • Description:

      Fervent fans of The Catcher in the Rye might want to consider this as a literary tribute. More mainstream alternative: Holden.
  15. Sherry
    • Origin:

      Phonetic variation of French Cheri; also a Spanish fortified wine
    • Description:

      Peppy cheerleader name of the 1960s and 70s that's sure to evoke the Four Seasons song of that name.
  16. Sabinu
    • Description:

      Sabinu is a masculine name likely derived from the Latin name 'Sabinus,' referring to a member of the Sabine people, an ancient Italian tribe. This uncommon name appears to be a variant found in certain Mediterranean or possibly African cultural contexts, though its specific regional usage is limited. Sabinu has a melodic quality with its balanced syllables and vowel ending, characteristic of names from Romance language regions. It remains extremely rare in global naming statistics, making it a highly distinctive choice. The name carries echoes of ancient Roman history through its etymological connection to the Sabines, known for their role in early Roman legends including the famous episode of the 'Rape of the Sabine Women.'

  17. Sabienne
    • Origin:

      Romanian, Bulgarian, Basque, from Latin
    • Meaning:

      "from the Sabines"
    • Description:

      Sabienne is a feminine name with French influences, likely derived as an elaborate variation of Sabine or possibly blending elements of Sabine and Fabienne. The name carries connotations of the ancient Sabine people from central Italy.
  18. Sigfroi
    • Description:

      Sigfroi is an elegant masculine name with ancient Germanic roots, representing the French form of Siegfried. The name combines the elements 'sieg' (victory) and 'fried' (peace), creating the powerful meaning of 'victorious peace.' Sigfroi carries illustrious mythological and literary connections through the legendary hero Siegfried from Germanic and Norse sagas, later immortalized in Wagner's opera cycle 'Der Ring des Nibelungen.' Despite its distinguished heritage, Sigfroi remains exceptionally rare, primarily found in French-speaking regions with Germanic influences. The name projects nobility and heroic qualities while offering an uncommon alternative to the more familiar German Siegfried. Its distinctive sound and spelling provide a unique option for parents drawn to names with historical depth and mythological significance.

  19. Sauveur
    • Description:

      Sauveur is a masculine French name derived from the Latin "salvator," meaning "savior" or "rescuer." This name carries profound religious significance in Christian contexts, where it directly references Jesus Christ as the Savior. In France, the name has historical usage particularly in Catholic families. Sauveur is especially associated with Corsica, where Saint Sauveur has been venerated. The name combines spiritual depth with a certain melodic elegance characteristic of French naming traditions. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, it maintains a modest presence in Francophone regions. Sauveur offers a name that balances unique qualities with deep historical roots, appealing to parents seeking a name with both distinctive sound and meaningful etymology.
  20. Sabinien
    • Description:

      Sabinien is a masculine name of Latin origin, derived from 'Sabinus,' which referred to a member of the ancient Sabine people who lived in the central Apennine Mountains of ancient Italy. The name gained recognition through Pope Sabinian, who led the Catholic Church briefly in the early 7th century. The '-ien' suffix reflects French influence and naming patterns. Though quite rare in modern usage, Sabinien maintains appeal in French-speaking regions and among those drawn to historically rich, distinctive names. It carries an elegant, scholarly quality with its classical roots and mellifluous sound. The name offers a rare alternative to more common saints' names while still having legitimate historical usage and religious connections.