Feminine French Names
- 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.
- Annaelle
Description:
Annaelle is a feminine name that combines elements of Anna and the French suffix 'elle.' Anna has Hebrew origins meaning 'grace' or 'favor,' while the suffix adds a delicate, feminine quality. Popular in French-speaking regions, particularly in France and Quebec, Annaelle offers parents a melodic alternative to the more common Anna or Annabelle. The name maintains its traditional roots while feeling fresh and contemporary. Annaelle carries an elegant, sophisticated air with its flowing syllables and soft ending. Though not widely used in English-speaking countries, its international appeal and pleasant sound make it an increasingly considered option for parents seeking a name with both substance and style.
- Aurelle
Description:
Aurelle is a feminine name of French origin, derived from the Latin "aureus" meaning "golden." It's a variation of names like Aurelia or Aurelie, carrying similar connotations of radiance, precious value, and luminous beauty. The name suggests sunshine, warmth, and a golden disposition. Though not widely used, Aurelle has a timeless elegance that appeals to parents seeking a name with classical roots but a distinctive sound. Its French heritage gives it a sophisticated quality, while its connection to gold and light creates positive associations. The name remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, giving children named Aurelle a sense of individuality while still bearing a name with historical depth.
- Axelle
Origin:
French feminine form of AxelMeaning:
"father of peace"Description:
Putting the emphasis on the "elle" softens a name that seems at once futuristic and medieval.
- Anouchka
- Avrielle
- Capucine
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"nasturtium"Description:
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.
- Cybelline
- Cymbeline
- Célestine
- Emmanuelle
Origin:
French, feminine variation of EmanuelMeaning:
"God is with us"Description:
The female version of Emanuel could become more prominent, though for some it still carries a steamy image dating back to a then sensationally erotic French film. Singer and Shameless star Emmy Rossum's full name is Emmanuelle.
- Fabienne
Origin:
French variation of FabiaMeaning:
"bean grower"Description:
Instead of the usual French suspects -- Danielle, Isabelle, Gabrielle -- why not consider Fabienne, which is less common and just as pretty.
- Faustine
Origin:
Latin, feminine variation of FaustMeaning:
"fortunate one"Description:
Faustine has a positive meaning, although the association with the character who sold his soul to the devil may be off-putting. This name is among the Top 100 girls' names in France, but was given to fewer than five baby girls in the US last year.
- Iliana
Origin:
Greek, Spanish variation of HelenMeaning:
"from Ilium or Troy; shining light"Description:
Iliana is one of the vaguely but usually undefinably international names that have a wide range of spellings and pronunciations. Ilium was the poetic name of the city of Troy, and variations of this name — especially Ileana and Ileanna — have been widely used, projecting a rather bohemian image. The traditional Greek pronunciation would be ee-lee-AH-nah while in English speaking countries, it might be ill-ee-AH-nah.
- Laureline
- Marcheline
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"warrior"Description:
Marcheline was the first name of Angelina Jolie's late mother, who was part French-Canadian, which Jolie and Brad Pitt used as the middle name for their twin daughter Vivienne. The name is related to the Latin Marcellus and Marcus, which come from Mars, the name of the God of War, and is often spelled Marceline. Jolie's mother's birth name was Marcia Lynne.
- Margaux
Origin:
French spelling variation of MargoDescription:
Yes, it's pronounced with a long o sound at the end, just like Margo and Margot. This spelling was popularized by supermodel, actress, and tragic Hemingway granddaughter Margaux, whose name spelling came courtesy of a bottle of French wine. (The original spelling of her name was Margot; she changed it when she heard her parents were drinking a bottle of Chateau Margaux the night she was conceived.) Margo itself is a diminutive of Margaret, which means "pearl" or, in its French version, "daisy." Margaret or Marguerite would be more stylish variations now.
- Maxime
Description:
Maxime is a French feminine name, though it can also be used for males in some cultures. Derived from the Latin name Maximus, meaning "greatest" or "largest," it carries connotations of excellence and achievement. In France, Maxime has maintained steady popularity as a given name for both genders but is more commonly used for boys. The feminine usage tends to emphasize the elegant, sophisticated quality of French naming traditions. Outside of French-speaking regions, Maxime is less common but appreciated for its international flair and subtle strength. The name offers the friendly nickname Max while maintaining a more formal, distinctive full name. Its classic roots and modern appeal have helped Maxime remain relevant across generations without becoming overused.
- 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.
- Marquette