Both Unique and Classic French Girl Names

Odile

French variation of German Otthild

"prospers in battle"

Odette's evil Swan Lake twin -- gives the name a sinuous, sensuous appeal. It was a popular choice in France in the 20th century and made the Top 40 back in 1952, however, it has since fallen out of…

Orleanna

Literary name

"gold"

Orleanna was the young heroine of Barbara Kingsolver's The Poisonwood Bible , whose name may share the same golden meaning as New Orleans, or be a twist on Orlena and Arlena.

Olympe

French variation of Olympia

Orane

French

"rising"

Oriana's not-quite-as-pretty French cousin.

Octavie

Octavie is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from the Roman name Octavius, meaning 'eighth' or 'born eighth.' It's the feminine form of Octave, particularly used in French-speaking regions.…

Pascale

French from Hebrew

"Passover"

Sophisticated, stylish feminine form of Pascal especially appropriate for girls born around Easter or Passover.

Prunella

Latin

"small plum"

Most ella names are hot, but this is one that won't catch fire because of the disagreeable connotations of prunes.

Pierrette

Feminine form of Pierre, French version of Peter

"rock"

Pierrette is the French feminine form of Peter or Pierre, an antiquated if charming feminization in the style of Albertine.

Quinta

Latin

"fifth"

The feminine Quinta is virtually unused in the US, though male forms of the Roman family name Quintus, such as Quintin and Quentin, are quite popular. That may change with the emergence of comedian…

Provence

French place-name

"province"

One of the most picturesque and enchanting areas of France could become a distinctive baby name. Provence Maydew is a Canadian actress.

Reinette

French

"little queen"

Reinette was the childhood nickname of Madame La Pompadour, perhaps a cute short form for Regina or Reina but hardly worthy of the full name on the birth certificate today.

Rivage

French word name

"shore"

Unique, soft, and flowing.

Romaine

French

"a Roman"

In this country, likely to conjure up visions of leafy lettuce.