French names for boys
- Philibert
Description:
Philibert is a masculine name of Germanic origin, combining the elements 'fili' meaning 'lover' or 'friend' and 'berht' meaning 'bright' or 'famous,' thus conveying the meaning 'very bright one' or 'distinguished friend.' This aristocratic name was particularly popular among medieval European nobility, especially in France and parts of what is now Belgium and Switzerland. Several dukes of Savoy bore this name, contributing to its historical prestige. Though rare in modern English-speaking countries, Philibert maintains some usage in French-speaking regions. The name carries an air of classical elegance and historical depth, appealing to parents drawn to uncommon names with noble European heritage. Potential nicknames include Phil, Bert, or the French-influenced Fili. The name's distinguished history makes it a distinctive choice with aristocratic associations.
- Philippe
Origin:
French variation of PhilipMeaning:
"lover of horses"Description:
Philippe, pronounced fill-EEP, is Philip with Gallic flair.
- Pierre
Origin:
French variation of PeterMeaning:
"rock, stone"Description:
One of the most familiar — if not stereotypical — Gallic names. Pierre was a Top 5 name in France from the 19th century through 1940 and is now on a steady decline in its native land. In the US, Pierre was most common in the 1980s but it has never cracked the Top 300.
- Pacôme
- Philémon
- Pierrick
- Quentin
Origin:
LatinMeaning:
"fifth"Description:
Quentin, an offbeat name with lots of character, relates to the Latin for the number five and is by far the subtlest and most usable of the Latin birth-order names, masculine as well as stylish and distinctive. It was borne by a third-century saint and came to England with the Normans.
- Renan
Origin:
Portuguese, Spanish, French, Turkish, and Breton variation of Ronan, IrishMeaning:
"little seal"Description:
An international variation of Ronan primarily found in Brazil.
- Renaud
Origin:
French variation of ReginaldDescription:
Attractive if phonetically confusing; also pronounced exactly the same as the Renault car.
- Rodolphe
Description:
Rodolphe is the French form of the Germanic name Rudolf, composed of the elements 'hrod' meaning 'fame' and 'wulf' meaning 'wolf.' This sophisticated masculine name carries an air of European elegance and aristocratic heritage. Throughout history, Rodolphe has been borne by various nobility, including Rodolphe I of Habsburg, the first Habsburg King of Germany. While more common in French-speaking regions like France, Switzerland, and parts of Canada, it remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. The name evokes images of refinement and cultural sophistication, often associated with the arts, particularly after Puccini's opera 'La Bohème' featured a character named Rodolphe.
- Rodrigue
Description:
Rodrigue is a masculine name of Germanic origin that reached the Romance languages through Spanish and Portuguese forms. It derives from elements meaning "fame" and "power" or "ruler." This is the French form of Rodrigo, which has been popular throughout the Iberian Peninsula and Latin America. Rodrigue carries an air of medieval nobility and literary significance, notably as the protagonist in Pierre Corneille's famous 17th-century French tragedy "Le Cid." While somewhat rare in modern usage, particularly in English-speaking countries, the name maintains popularity in French-speaking regions and among families with French or Spanish heritage. Rodrigue offers a sophisticated European alternative to the more common Rod or Roderick variations, with a distinctive pronunciation that emphasizes the final syllable in the French manner.
- Roland
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"famous throughout the land"Description:
Roland is a chivalrous old name made famous by the supposedly eight-foot-tall romantic hero and nephew of Charlemagne, celebrated in medieval poetry and song. It is more widely heard in the US now in its Spanish form, Rolando. You might want to consider rollicking short form Rollo, either on its own or as an abbreviation of Roland. Orlando is the graceful Italian form.
- Romain
Description:
Romain is a masculine name of French origin derived from the Latin 'Romanus,' meaning 'Roman' or 'from Rome.' This classic name has been used in France for centuries, honoring the historical significance of Roman culture. It remains quite popular in French-speaking regions while maintaining a sophisticated, international appeal elsewhere. The name carries connotations of strength and civility, reflecting the cultural impact of the Roman Empire. In English-speaking countries, Romain offers a distinctive alternative to the more common Roman. Notable bearers include French writers, athletes, and artists, which has helped maintain its cultural relevance. The name has a refined, intellectual quality while still sounding strong and masculine. Its pronunciation (ro-MAN) adds to its elegant, continental character, making it appealing for parents seeking a name with European sophistication.
- Raphaël
- Romuald
- Régis
- Rémy
- Samuel
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"told by God"Description:
Samuel has been so popular for so long that it's hard to believe it's still climbing, at its highest point since the 1890s.
- Simon
Origin:
Hebrew, GreekMeaning:
"he has heard; flat-nosed"Description:
Simon is pure and simple (not in the nursery rhyme sense), and an appealingly genuine Old and New Testament name that's not overused. These factors make Simon a stylish yet classic choice.
- Sylvain
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"wood, forest"Description:
Doesn't everything sound better with a French accent? Sylvain, the French variation of the Roman wood god's name, sounds somehow cooler and more sophisticated than Sylvan.