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French Names that Start With Y

Nameberry
By Nameberry
Updated Tue Oct 01 2024
  1. Yves

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "yew wood"

    • Description:

      On paper, with its stylish ties to fashion legend Yves Saint-Laurent (born Henri), Yves looks great, but the pronunciation--EVE-- could lead to gender confusion. German variation Ivo might be cooler and clear up the issue.
  2. Yvette

    • Origin:

      French, feminine of Yves

    • Meaning:

      "yew tree"

    • Description:

      This French name has the elegance of other '-ette' names such as Colette and is a botanical name without being too obvious about it.
  3. Yvonne

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "yew wood"

    • Description:

      Peaking in the 1950s, Yvonne has now dropped out of the Top 1000 in 2003 and doesn't look set to return soon, although its rare Y initial might endear it to some. Yvaine, from Neil Gaiman's Stardust, has more modern appeal.
  4. Yanis

    • Origin:

      Greek, French, from Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "gift of God"

    • Description:

      One of the relatives on the widely-branching family of John names, Yanis is in the French Top 50 and was a fast rising choice in the UK in 2022, when it went from being outside the Top 1000 to within the Top 700.
  5. Yannick

    • Origin:

      Breton

    • Meaning:

      "God is gracious"

    • Description:

      Yannick originated as a diminutive of Yann, the Breton form of John. However, it has since become popular as a standalone name in its native region of Brittany, as well as in France as a whole, where it peaked at #31 in 1973-4. It remains well within the Top 500 in France to this day, and has also seen regular use in Belgium, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Quebec.
  6. Yann

    • Origin:

      French/Breton variation of John

    • Meaning:

      "God is gracious"

    • Description:

      This might be a better choice than the similarly pronounced Jan, to avoid gender confusion.
  7. Yolande

    • Description:

      Yolande is a feminine name of medieval French origin derived from the Germanic elements 'yol' meaning 'viking' or 'valiant' and 'lande' meaning 'land' or 'territory'. It was introduced to England after the Norman Conquest and gained popularity throughout medieval Europe. The name has royal connections, having been borne by several medieval queens and noblewomen, including Yolande of Aragon in the 15th century. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Yolande has maintained a consistent presence, appreciated for its elegant, vintage sound and distinctive character. Alternative forms include Yolanda, Iolanthe, and Violante, which evolved in different European languages.
  8. Yvet

    • Description:

      Yvet is an uncommon masculine variation of the French name Yvette, which itself derives from the Germanic name Ivo, meaning 'yew tree' or 'archer.' While Yvette is traditionally feminine, Yvet represents a rare masculine adaptation. The name has roots in medieval France and can be found occasionally throughout Europe, particularly in French-speaking regions and the Netherlands. Yvet shares connections with other names from the same root, such as Yves and Ivo. Extremely rare in the United States and most English-speaking countries, it offers a distinctive option for parents seeking an uncommon name with European flair. The name carries connotations of elegance and refinement due to its French associations.
  9. Yevette

    • Description:

      Yevette is an uncommon spelling variation of Yvette, a French feminine name derived from the Germanic name Ivo, meaning 'yew' (a type of tree symbolizing strength). The traditional Yvette emerged as the feminine diminutive form and gained popularity outside France in the mid-20th century. This 'Ye-' spelling variation likely aims to clarify pronunciation in English-speaking contexts, making the initial sound more intuitive than the traditional 'Y'. While Yvette peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s, the Yevette spelling has remained quite rare. The name carries a certain vintage elegance with French associations, though this particular spelling creates a subtle distinction from the more traditional form.

  10. Yvon

    • Description:

      Yvon is a masculine name of French origin, serving as a variation of Yves or Yvonne. Derived from the Germanic element 'iv,' meaning 'yew tree,' which symbolized strength and endurance in ancient cultures. Predominantly used in French-speaking regions, particularly in Brittany and Quebec, Yvon has a long history dating back to medieval times. Though less common today than in previous generations, the name maintains a classic, understated elegance. Its simplicity and melodic quality give it timeless appeal, while its relative rarity in English-speaking countries lends it distinction. Yvon combines cultural heritage with a soft-spoken strength.
  11. Yolanthe

    • Description:

      Yolanthe is a distinctive variation of Yolande, a name derived from the medieval French name Violante, which relates to the Latin word for 'violet flower.' This elaborate version adds sophistication with its additional syllable and unique ending. Primarily found in Dutch-speaking regions and parts of Europe, Yolanthe remains rare in English-speaking countries. The name gained some international recognition through Dutch-Spanish actress Yolanthe Cabau. With its flowing sound and uncommon letter combinations, Yolanthe offers an exotic yet accessible option for parents seeking something distinctive. The connection to violets brings associations with modesty and delicate beauty, while maintaining an air of aristocratic elegance through its medieval European heritage.