Both Unique and Classic French Girl Names

Girl names of French origin-some classic, and some completely unique. This list may include a few variants of French names. All of these names I absolutely adore!
  1. Abrial
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "open, secure, protected"
    • Description:

      This unique baby name is stronger, more distinctive than April or Avril.
  2. Adalie
    • Origin:

      Variation of Adelie or Adalia
    • Meaning:

      "noble; God is just"
    • Description:

      Akin to Ada, Adeline, and Adele, Adalie is one of many names to derive from the Old German element adal. Musical and lively, and less popular than its many of its sisters, Adalie was given to around 160 girls in a recent year. An obscure choice until the 2000s, Adalie saw increased usage in the US in 2012, around the time as other Ad- names were beginning to really trend.
  3. Adele
    • Origin:

      French diminutive of Adelaide
    • Meaning:

      "noble, nobility"
    • Description:

      Credit the award-winning single-named British singer for taking the girls’ name Adele from a quiet semi-retirement back into currency. Adele reentered the US Top 1000 popular baby names in 2011 and has remained there ever since.
  4. Adeline
    • Origin:

      French, diminutive of Adele
    • Meaning:

      "noble, nobility"
    • Description:

      Adeline has a lovely, old-fashioned "Sweet Adeline" charm, but has become so popular in the US under so many spellings and variations -- with Adalynn and Adalyn also popular -- that considered together it is far more popular than it first seems. Adorable nickname Addie is also pervasive.
  5. Adriane
    • Description:

      Adriane is a feminine name of Greek origin, a variant of Adriana, the feminine form of Adrian. The name ultimately derives from 'Hadrianus,' referring to someone from the ancient city of Hadria (or Adria) in northern Italy. Adriane carries elegant, classical overtones with its Greek connections and mythological echoes. Less common than Adriana or Adrienne, this spelling variation offers a subtle uniqueness while remaining recognizable. The name peaked in popularity during the mid-20th century but maintains timeless appeal. Adriane possesses a sophisticated quality with international recognition. The name evokes strength and femininity simultaneously, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with classical roots that works well across cultures and age groups.

  6. Adrianne
    • Description:

      Adrianne is a feminine name derived from the Latin name Hadrianus, meaning 'from Hadria,' an ancient town in northern Italy. This elegant variation of Adrian combines classical roots with a feminine ending. The double 'n' spelling distinguishes it from the more common 'Adriane,' giving it a sophisticated touch. Adrianne reached modest popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s but remains relatively uncommon today, making it distinctive without being unusual. The name carries connotations of strength and intelligence, stemming from its association with the Roman Emperor Hadrian. With its flowing three-syllable pronunciation (ay-dree-ANN), Adrianne balances traditional feminine elegance with historical substance, appealing to parents seeking a classic yet not overused name with international recognition.
  7. Adrienne
    • Origin:

      Latin, feminine variation of Adrian
    • Meaning:

      "man from Adria"
    • Description:

      A long-integrated French feminine form of Adrian, now overshadowed by the a-ending version, but still a valid option, with considerable substance and dignity—though these days more parents would probably choose Adriana.
  8. Agathe
    • Origin:

      French variation of Agatha, Greek
    • Meaning:

      "good woman"
    • Description:

      Agathe is a hugely popular name in contemporary France, even if it's English-speaking counterparts have not yet warmed to the usual English version, Agatha. The French pronunciation is sure to trip up non-French speakers.
  9. Agnes
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "pure, virginal"
    • Description:

      Agnes is the Latin variation of the name Hagne, which itself derived from the Greek word hagnos, meaning "chaste." In medieval times, St. Agnes was a very popular saint, leading to its popularity as a girl's name. Agnes Grey is the title of one of the two novels written by Anne Brontë.
  10. Aimee
    • Origin:

      Variation of Amy, French
    • Meaning:

      "beloved"
    • Description:

      Amy was a 1970s favorite, and French spelling Aimee peaked in the same decade. Today, about 1500 baby girls are still named Amy every year in the US, versus about 150 named Aimee.
  11. Alexandrie
    • Description:

      Alexandrie is a feminine name that represents a French variation of Alexandra, which ultimately derives from the Greek name Alexandros meaning 'defender of mankind' or 'protector of people.' This elegant variation adds a distinctly French flair to the classic name through its ending. While Alexandra and Alexandria are more common internationally, Alexandrie offers a sophisticated European alternative with its soft pronunciation and graceful ending. The name carries the strength and historical significance of its Greek origins while adding a touch of French refinement. Though relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, it may appeal to parents seeking a name with international appeal and classical roots but with a distinctive, feminine quality.

  12. Alexandrine
    • Origin:

      French and German variation of Alexandra
    • Meaning:

      "defending men"
    • Description:

      Alexandra is a name with many international variations, elaborations and short forms, and Alexandrine is one of the more unusual. Another, Alexandrina, was the first name of Queen Victoria.
  13. Alice
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "noble"
    • Description:

      Alice is a classic literary name that's both strong and sweet, ranking in the US Top 100 and popular throughout the western world. Alice is derived from the Old French name Aalis, a diminutive of Adelais that itself came from the Germanic name Adalhaidis, which is composed of the Proto-Germanic elements aþala, meaning "noble," and haidu, "kind, appearance, type."
  14. Alicie
    • Description:

      Alicie is a feminine name that represents a variant spelling of Alice, which derives from the Old French name Aalis, a form of the Germanic name Adalheidis meaning 'noble type' or 'nobility.' This spelling variation adds a unique touch to the classic name while maintaining its historical essence and pronunciation. The additional 'i' creates a softer, more elaborate visual appearance while preserving the name's traditional sound. While much less common than the standard Alice, Alicie occasionally appears in records throughout English-speaking countries. The name carries the same sophisticated charm and literary associations as Alice (notably from 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland') but with a distinctive spelling that sets it apart. Parents might choose this spelling to honor family tradition while adding a unique element.

  15. Aline
    • Origin:

      Variation of Adeline or Aileen
    • Description:

      Aline may have originated as a short form of Adeline in the Middle Ages, but it may also be a variation of the Irish Aileen or Scottish Eileen. Aline dropped off the Top 1000 in the 1950s. Fewer than 40 baby girls were named Aline in the US last year.
  16. Alisanne
    • Description:

      Alisanne is a feminine name that combines elements of several popular names. It appears to blend Alice (of Germanic origin meaning 'noble' or 'of noble kind') with Anne or the French suffix '-anne.' This creates a name that feels both familiar and distinctive. Alisanne has a graceful, melodic quality with its flowing syllables and soft sounds. While not among the most common names, Alisanne appeals to parents seeking something elegant with traditional roots but less widespread usage. The name carries a subtle French influence that adds sophistication. Bearers of this name enjoy a balance of uniqueness and accessibility, as most people will recognize its components while appreciating its uncommon combination.
  17. Alix
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "noble type"
    • Description:

      A chic and sassy French choice, popular in France but likely to be confused with the more prosaic Alex in English-speaking countries. Although sometimes used in the US as a variant spelling of Alex, the French name Alix actually derives from a medieval French form of the name Alice or Adelaide.
  18. Allura
    • Origin:

      French
    • Meaning:

      "to entice, attract"
    • Description:

      Sounds like a princess -- or an enticingly evil witch -- in a fairy tale.
  19. Amandine
    • Origin:

      French, diminutive of Amanda
    • Meaning:

      "much-loved"
    • Description:

      This fragrant, almond-scented name has hardly been heard in this country, which is a pity--we've loved it since John Malkovich used it for his now grown daughter.
  20. Amarante
    • Description:

      Amarante is a feminine name derived from the amaranth flower, whose name comes from Greek 'amarantos,' meaning 'unfading' or 'everlasting.' In various European traditions, particularly Portuguese, Spanish, and French, Amarante has been used as a given name symbolizing immortality and enduring beauty. The amaranth has significant cultural symbolism, representing immortality in ancient Greek mythology and featuring in poetry throughout the ages. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, the name carries an elegant, romantic quality with its flowing sounds and botanical connection. Amarante appeals to parents drawn to nature-inspired names with deep symbolic meanings and a touch of European flair, offering both distinctive character and a connection to classical traditions.