French Names that Start With S
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Sojourner
Origin:
French, EnglishMeaning:
"to stay a while"Description:
African-American and women's rights activist Sojourner Truth was born as Isabelle into enslavement. She adopted her new name when she began traveling and preaching abolition in 1843. Sojourner is a heroine name that may, with the rise of spiritual word names such as Journey and Genesis, finally be ready for prime time.
- 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.
- 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.'
- Saison
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"season"Description:
A French word name that could be a fresh spin on Summer or Autumn.
- 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.
- Sévère
Origin:
French form of Severus, LatinMeaning:
"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.
- Sébastienne
Description:
Sébastienne is the French feminine form of Sébastien (Sebastian), derived from the Greek 'Sebastos' meaning 'revered' or 'venerable'. This elegant name carries the formality and sophistication often associated with French naming traditions. The accent over the first 'e' indicates the proper French pronunciation. While the masculine Sebastian has enjoyed widespread popularity across many countries, Sébastienne remains considerably rarer, offering a distinctive option with classical roots. The name conveys a sense of refinement and cultural connection to French heritage. Traditionally used in French-speaking regions, it has a timeless quality that combines historical depth with feminine elegance.
- Salinger
Origin:
French, Saint LégerDescription:
Fervent fans of The Catcher in the Rye might want to consider this as a literary tribute. More mainstream alternative: Holden.
- Squire
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"esquire"Description:
Conjures up a tweedy English country gentleman with a large paunch.
- Sylvianne
Description:
Sylvianne is an elegant feminine name that represents an elaborate extension of Sylvia, which derives from Latin 'silva' meaning 'forest' or 'woodland.' The addition of the French-inspired suffix '-anne' creates a more ornate, sophisticated variation that maintains the nature-inspired roots while adding a touch of romantic flair. This melodic four-syllable name carries an air of classical femininity with a European sensibility, particularly French or Belgian influence. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Sylvianne may have more presence in Francophone regions. The name evokes images of woodland grace and natural beauty while its flowing pronunciation offers a lyrical quality. For parents seeking a name with classical roots but distinctive presentation, Sylvianne provides an uncommon alternative to more familiar forms like Sylvia or Sylvie.
- Satin
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"smooth, shiny"Description:
Sensuous to a fault.
- 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.
- 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.
- Soutine
Origin:
French artist nameDescription:
Creative choice relating to the Lithuanian-born expressionist painter known for his bold, vibrantly colored canvases.
- Sevastiane
Description:
Sevastiane is a rare feminine name derived from the Greek name Sebastianos (Σεβαστιανός), meaning 'from Sebastia' or 'revered.' It represents a feminine form of Sebastian, which has roots in ancient Greek and Latin. The name carries associations with dignity, respect, and veneration. While extremely uncommon in most Western countries, Sevastiane maintains connections to Orthodox Christian traditions, particularly in Greek and Russian cultures. The name has a lyrical, flowing quality with its multiple syllables and elegant ending. Parents might choose Sevastiane for its distinctive sound and classical origins while appreciating its rarity. The name suggests someone who commands respect and possesses an elegant, dignified presence—qualities balanced with the name's inherently musical and feminine sound.
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