French word names

Ange is a feminine name of French origin meaning 'angel,' though it can occasionally be used for boys in France as well. Simple yet evocative, this name directly references celestial beings and carries strong spiritual associations across many cultures. The name's brevity gives it a distinctive quality compared to longer forms like Angela or Angelica. Ange has maintained consistent usage in French-speaking regions but remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, where it offers a subtle, sophisticated alternative to more common angelic names. The name conveys qualities of purity, goodness, and spiritual beauty within its compact, elegant form.

Atlas is one of those names that was previously thought too powerful for a baby boy, who would have to be strong enough to carry the world on his shoulders. Now Atlas has joined the pantheon of Greek and Roman god and goddess names in the realm of possibility, along with Mars, Zeus and Apollo.

Aurore is a feminine name of Latin origin meaning 'dawn.' It's the French form of Aurora, the Roman goddess of the morning. The name evokes images of daybreak, new beginnings, and golden light. In French-speaking countries, particularly France and Canada, Aurore has maintained steady popularity over the centuries. The name carries an air of classic elegance and natural beauty. Its literary connections include the protagonist of George Sand's novel 'Histoire de ma vie.' While less common in English-speaking regions, Aurore offers an alternative to the more widely used Aurora. The name's soft sounds and romantic associations give it a timeless quality. Parents might choose Aurore for its subtle French sophistication or meaningful connection to light and renewal.

Blanche, which originated as a nickname for a pale blonde and then became associated with the notion of purity, was in style a century ago, ranking in the double digits until 1920. She then had to fight the stereotype of faded Southern belle, a la Blanche DuBois in Tennessee Williams's A Streetcar Named Desire and Blanche Devereaux in TV's Golden Girls. Now all three of the Golden Girls--Blanche, Rose and Dorothy--could be ready for revival, with Blanche sounding like a stronger, simpler alternative to Bianca.

Capucine was a chic French actress half a century ago and has been one of the most fashionable girl names in France in recent decades, ranking in France's Top 100. Capucine is also popular in French-speaking Belgium. To Americans and other English speakers, this name still feels fresh -- so fresh that last year, no baby girls were named Capucine in the US.

Infinitely preferable to the tease-inspiring English version of the word.

Colline is a feminine name with French origins, derived from the word 'colline' meaning 'hill' or 'small mountain.' This elegant name carries a natural, geographical significance while maintaining a delicate, feminine sound. Though relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Colline has a certain poetic quality that appeals to parents seeking a unique yet melodious name for their daughters. The name evokes images of rolling landscapes and serene elevations, suggesting strength combined with natural beauty. While not frequently found in popularity charts, Colline offers a distinctive alternative to more common nature-inspired names.

Constance is one of the more subtle of the virtue baby names, but still has quite a prim and proper image. One impediment to its revival has been the decidedly dated nickname Connie, though modern parents might well opt for using the strong and dignified name in full.

A traditional French male name that could, with American pronunciation, become an admirable word name.