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Both Unique and Classic French Girl Names

  1. Melaina

    • Description:

      Melaina is a feminine name with Greek origins, derived from 'melania' meaning 'black' or 'dark.' In Greek mythology, Melaina was an epithet of Demeter, connecting the name to themes of earth, fertility, and the changing seasons. The name carries an elegant, flowing quality with its three melodious syllables (meh-LAY-nah). While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Melaina offers a more distinctive alternative to the popular Melanie, which shares the same linguistic roots. The name has a sophisticated, classical feel that appeals to parents drawn to names with mythological connections and Greek heritage. Its uncommon status combined with relatively straightforward pronunciation gives Melaina a balance of uniqueness and accessibility.
  2. Melaine

    • Description:

      Melaine is a feminine name that functions as a variant spelling of Melanie, which derives from the Greek name Melania, meaning "black" or "dark." This alternative spelling maintains the same pronunciation while offering a slightly more distinctive appearance with the insertion of an 'i' before the final 'e.' While less common than the standard spelling, Melaine gained modest usage in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s when Melanie was at its peak popularity. The name carries a gentle, melodic quality and retains the same historical connections as its traditional counterpart, including associations with Saint Melania the Younger, a Roman philanthropist from the 5th century. Melaine offers familiar nickname options like Mel or Lainey.

  3. Melanie

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "black, dark"

    • Description:

      Gone with the Wind inspired a generation of girls named Melanie, though it looks as though Scarlett will triumph in the end.
  4. Melisande

    • Origin:

      French form of Millicent, German

    • Meaning:

      "strong in work"

    • Description:

      This old-time fairy tale name is rarely heard in the modern English-speaking world, but it's so, well, mellifluous, that it would make a lovely choice for a twenty-first century girl--a romanticized tribute to an Aunt Melissa or Melanie.
  5. Melodie

    • Description:

      Melodie is a feminine name that represents a French-influenced spelling variation of Melody. Derived from Greek elements 'melos' (song) and 'oide' (ode), the name literally means 'song' or 'music.' This spelling variation adds a touch of European elegance to the musical name. Melodie gained modest popularity during the mid-20th century when musical names were trending. The name evokes qualities of harmony, creativity, and artistic expression. With its soft consonants and flowing vowel sounds, Melodie itself sounds musical when pronounced. While not as common as the 'Melody' spelling in English-speaking countries, this variant maintains its appeal for parents seeking a slightly distinctive twist on a recognizable and meaningful name with inherent musicality.
  6. Melusine

    • Origin:

      French, folkloric name

    • Description:

      Melusine was a figure from early European folklore, associated with the water. Her legends are especially connected with the northern and western areas of France, as well as the Low Countries. She is also connected with the French Lusignan royal house which claimed to be descended from Melusine. This name makes a good choice for people looking for a feminine mythological name but want to steer clear of Greek and Arthurian mythology.
  7. Merla

    • Description:

      Merla is a feminine name with varied origins and meanings across cultures. In Spanish, it derives from "merlo" meaning "blackbird," symbolizing beauty and grace. It can also be considered a variation of Merle, which has Germanic roots meaning "famous" or "bright." In some contexts, Merla appears as a shortened form of names like Merlinda or Merilda. The name has never achieved widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, remaining distinctive and uncommon. Merla peaked in usage in the United States during the 1920s and 1930s but has since become quite rare. The name carries a vintage charm while maintaining a simple, melodic quality that feels both familiar and unique.

  8. Merryl

    • Description:

      Merryl is a charming feminine name that evolved as a variant spelling of Meryl, itself a diminutive form of Meriel or a feminine version of Merrill. With Celtic origins, the name carries meanings connected to "bright sea," "famous," or "shining." The distinctive double-r spelling gives Merryl a unique character while maintaining its melodic pronunciation. Though never reaching widespread popularity, the name saw modest usage in English-speaking countries during the mid-20th century. Actress Meryl Streep's fame has influenced perceptions of all variations of the name, associating it with talent and sophistication. Merryl blends vintage appeal with a light, cheerful quality suggested by its similarity to "merry." The name's brevity and pleasant sound make it an understated yet distinctive choice for parents seeking something familiar yet uncommon.
  9. Michelle

    • Origin:

      French variation of Michael

    • Meaning:

      "who is like God"

    • Description:

      Michelle is the feminine form of Michel, the French variation of Michael. Michael was derived from the Hebrew name Mihka’el, meaning "who is like God." The alternate spelling Michele, with one "L," was the original version of the name. Michelle appeared as a later Anglicization in the 20th century.
  10. Mignon

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "delicate, dainty"

    • Description:

      Charming French endearment, first used as a name by Goethe, that now makes an appealing choice -- though the proper feminine form is Mignonne. Note, though, that this is not actually used as a name in France, where Manon would be the closest choice.
  11. Millicent

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "strong in work"

    • Description:

      Combining the mild and the innocent, this sweet and feminine name is worthy of a comeback, in the mode of Madeline and Cecilia. Its original, also attractive form is Melisende, which came from Germany to France and was borne by a daughter of Charlemagne.
  12. Mimi

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Mary, Miriam, and others

    • Description:

      Sweet, nicknamey name belonging to the tragic heroines of both La Bohème and Rent. Mimi might feel too slight for many parents to use on the birth certificate, but as a short form, it's one of the cutest of the cute baby names.
  13. Minette

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "faithful defender"

    • Description:

      Frenchified name rarely used in France. And perhaps even more rarely used in the US -- there were NO baby girls given the name on the official records of 2021.
  14. Mirabelle

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "marvelous"

    • Description:

      If you're looking for a fresher belle name than Isabelle, Mirabelle is lovely, and we also like the extra flourish of Mirabella. And if you want a nature tie, Mirabelle is also the name of a delicate French plum.
  15. Mireille

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "to admire"

    • Description:

      Pretty name that may pose pronunciation problems -- it's meer-AY -- but is well worth the effort.
  16. Monet

    • Origin:

      French artist name, from diminutive of Simon

    • Description:

      A new favorite of the bohemian set, brought to light by actress Monet Mazur, daughter of the artist who designed the Rolling Stones' mouth logo.
  17. Monique

    • Origin:

      French variation of Monica

    • Meaning:

      "advisor"

    • Description:

      The sort of oh-so-French name that's falling out of favor now.
  18. Morgane

    • Description:

      Morgane is a feminine name of Welsh and Breton origin, a variant of Morgan that's particularly popular in France. It derives from the Welsh elements 'mor' meaning 'sea' and 'gan' meaning 'born,' together suggesting 'born from the sea' or 'sea-dweller.' In Arthurian legend, Morgan le Fay was a powerful enchantress, giving the name mystical associations. The addition of the final 'e' in Morgane gives the name a distinctly French flair and feminine quality compared to the more unisex Morgan. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, Morgane has maintained steady popularity in France and French-speaking regions. The name balances ancient Celtic roots with a contemporary sound, offering mythological depth alongside modern appeal.

  19. Musette

    • Description:

      Musette is a delicate feminine name of French origin with musical associations. Derived from the French word for a small bagpipe-like instrument popular in the 18th century, it also refers to a charming rustic dance. The name gained some recognition through its appearance in the opera 'La Bohème,' where Musetta is a spirited character. Though uncommon in mainstream usage, Musette carries a whimsical, artistic quality that appeals to parents drawn to French-inspired names with cultural depth. Its musical roots make it especially appealing to families with artistic inclinations. Despite its rarity, Musette offers a memorable, melodic quality while maintaining an elegant French sophistication that sets it apart from more commonly used French names.

  20. Mystique

    • Origin:

      French word name

    • Description:

      Better for a perfume.