French Names that Start With S

  1. 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.
  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. 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.
  5. Simonette
    • Description:

      Simonette is a feminine name that serves as a diminutive or elaboration of Simone, the feminine form of Simon. It has French influences, with the charming '-ette' suffix adding a touch of delicacy and elegance. The base name Simon derives from the Hebrew name Shimon, meaning 'one who hears' or 'he has heard.' Simonette carries this heritage while adding a feminine, ornate quality. Quite rare in English-speaking countries, Simonette offers a distinctive alternative to more common feminine forms like Simone or Simona. The name has a romantic, vintage appeal with its French-inspired styling. Parents might choose Simonette for its sophisticated European flair, melodious quality, and the way it balances traditional roots with unique character.
  6. 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.
  7. Sibylle
    • Description:

      Sibylle is a feminine name with ancient roots, derived from the Greek 'Sibylla', referring to female prophets or oracles in ancient Greece and Rome. These sibyls were revered for their wisdom and prophetic abilities. The name has been used throughout European history, particularly in German, French, and Swiss regions. While never extremely common, Sibylle has maintained a steady presence, especially in continental Europe. It carries an air of mystique and classical elegance, often associated with wisdom and foresight. The name experienced modest popularity in the mid-20th century in French-speaking and Germanic countries. Variations include Sibyl, Sybil, and Sibilla.
  8. 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.
  9. Soutine
    • Origin:

      French artist name
    • Description:

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

      French
    • Meaning:

      "esquire"
    • Description:

      Conjures up a tweedy English country gentleman with a large paunch.
  11. Satin
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "smooth, shiny"
    • Description:

      Sensuous to a fault.
  12. Saby
    • Description:

      Saby is a versatile name used for boys, though it occasionally appears as a feminine name as well. It likely originated as a diminutive of names like Sebastian, Sabine, or Isabel, depending on the cultural context. In Latin American communities, it often functions as a nickname for Sebastian, while in Indian contexts, it may be a variant of Sabi, meaning 'eternity' or 'forever.' The name's brevity gives it a modern, approachable quality, while its potential connections to various linguistic traditions provide cultural depth. Saby remains uncommon as a formal given name in most Western countries, maintaining its distinctiveness. Its simple pronunciation and spelling make it accessible across cultures, while its rarity ensures individuality. The name has a friendly, unpretentious quality that balances uniqueness with approachability.
  13. 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.'

  14. Sandrine
    • Origin:

      French variation of Alexandra
    • Description:

      Sophisticated French choice. Or toxic petrochemical.
  15. 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.
  16. 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.

  17. 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.
  18. 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.
  19. Sylvette
    • Description:

      Sylvette is a delicate feminine name of French origin, functioning as a diminutive of Sylvie or Sylvia, which derive from Latin 'silva' meaning 'forest' or 'wood.' The suffix '-ette' adds a sense of daintiness and charm, typical of French naming patterns. The name gained some recognition through Pablo Picasso's series of artwork titled 'Sylvette,' inspired by a young woman he met in 1954. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, Sylvette has maintained modest usage in French-speaking regions. The name evokes images of woodland grace and carries a sophisticated European flair while remaining approachable. Its connection to nature aligns with current naming trends favoring botanical and natural elements.
  20. Seraffinu
    • Description:

      Seraffinu is a rare masculine name of Maltese origin, derived from the Italian 'Serafino' or ultimately from the Hebrew word 'seraphim,' referring to a celestial being or angel. In religious iconography, seraphim are depicted as six-winged angels who serve as caretakers of God's throne. The Maltese variant Seraffinu maintains the angelic associations while incorporating distinctive local phonology. This name remains uncommon globally but carries spiritual significance in Mediterranean Catholic cultures. Historically, it was more frequently used in Malta and southern Italian regions where saints bearing variations of this name were venerated. The name suggests qualities of purity, divine protection, and spiritual devotion.