Other French Names

Albine is a delicate feminine name of French and Latin origin. Derived from the Latin word "albus" meaning "white" or "bright," Albine carries connotations of purity, clarity, and light. The name was occasionally used in medieval Europe, particularly in France, though it remains quite rare in contemporary usage. Albine has an elegant, vintage quality with its soft sounds and French aesthetic. The feminine ending gives it a gentle flow while maintaining connection to masculine forms like Albin or Albinus. This name might appeal to parents seeking something genuinely uncommon yet historically grounded, with simple pronunciation despite its rarity. Its connection to lightness and brightness gives it a positive association while its uncommon status makes it distinctively individual.

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.

Appoline is a feminine name of French origin, derived from the Greek name 'Apollonia,' which itself comes from the Greek god Apollo, associated with light, music, and healing. This elegant name carries a sense of classical beauty and sophistication. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Appoline has maintained a quiet presence in French-speaking regions. The name offers appealing nickname options such as Apple, Polly, or Lina. Appoline conveys a blend of ancient wisdom and refined grace, making it a distinctive choice that combines historical depth with melodic charm.

Cosette is best known as the heroine of Les Miserables. In the Victor Hugo novel, Cosette was the nickname given to the girl named Euphrasie by her mother. Although Hugo invented the name, some etymologists believe it's a spin on Colette, originally a female short form of Nicolas.

Domitille is the French form of the ancient royal name Domitilla. Domitille is used today, and was in the French Top 500 during the 2000s. While English speakers might say it as dom-ih-till or dom-ih-teel, in French, it would be DAW-MEE-TEE. Either way, it could be an interesting way to nickname Dottie.

Hermine and Hermina once ranked in the US Top 1000 for girls, but the First World War put an end to the popularity of these and many other German names. Now, both names are extinct though father name Herman is sometimes found.

Joel is one of those boys’ names that's never been super-popular yet has never been UNpopular either -- it's been in the Top 400 in the US since we started keeping statistics in 1880. So it's inevitable that its female form Joelle would gain visibility too, and indeed Joelle was used most widely during Joel's reign in the Top 100, from the late 1960s through the early 1990s.

Lise is most often found in the U.S. as the second half of the hybrid name Annalise. Canadian journalist Lyse Doucet bears a pretty alternative spelling, pronounced LEESE.

Luce is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from 'lux' meaning 'light.' Used primarily in French and Italian cultures, Luce functions as either a standalone name or as a shortened form of Lucille, Lucia, or Lucienne. In France, it has maintained steady but modest popularity for centuries, appreciated for its elegance and simplicity. The name carries positive associations with illumination, clarity, and brightness, reflecting its etymological connection to light. In English-speaking countries, Luce remains uncommon but recognizable, offering a sophisticated European alternative to more familiar light-themed names like Lucy or Claire. Its brevity and soft sound give it a subtle charm, while its meaning provides rich symbolic significance. Luce balances traditional roots with a contemporary minimalist appeal.

Lydie is a feminine name with French origins, representing the French form of Lydia. The name traces back to ancient times, derived from the historic region of Lydia in Asia Minor (modern Turkey). The name means 'from Lydia' and has connections to the ancient Greek culture. In France and French-speaking regions, Lydie has maintained steady usage, appreciated for its elegant simplicity and classical roots. The name has a delicate, refined quality while remaining straightforward to pronounce. While less common in English-speaking countries than the form Lydia, Lydie offers a subtle French twist that appeals to parents seeking names with European flair. The name carries associations with culture and refinement, reflecting its ancient heritage and continued use in sophisticated naming traditions.

Magali is a feminine name with rich cultural connections, primarily of Provençal French and Occitan origin. The name evolved as a regional variation of Margaret, which derives from the Greek 'margarites' meaning 'pearl.' In Southern France, Magali gained prominence through Frédéric Mistral's poem 'Mirèio,' where it appeared as a character name. The name carries a lyrical quality with its soft sounds and rhythmic syllables. While common in French-speaking regions, particularly in Switzerland and parts of Canada, Magali remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. Its appeal lies in its melodic sound combined with its cultural heritage. The name often evokes associations with creativity, beauty, and Mediterranean warmth.

Manon is an endearing French pet name for Marie or Marianne; it has the international yet straightforward feel that makes it a viable import. Manon of the Spring was a gorgeous French film, Manon Lescaut a 1731 novel by Abbe Prevost, set in France and Louisiana, that was controversial in its day. It formed the basis of operas by Puccini and Massenet, and several films and TV series.

Balancing femininity, vintage charm, and fantasy nerdiness, Marceline is one to watch. Marceline the Vampire Queen from the 2010-2018 animated TV series Adventure Time brought her elaborate French name back into public consciousness. It re-entered the Top 1000 in 2020, after an 86 year hiatus, and rose into the 700s in 2021. Nicknames Marcie and Marcy are rising in popularity as well. Marceline may appeal to parents who like frilly, traditional, and sophisticated names such as Josephine and Genevieve.

Derived from Marie, the meaning of which is uncertain. Theories include "drop of the sea" (from Hebrew roots mar "drop" and yam "sea"); "bitter" (from Hebrew marah "bitterness"); and "beloved" (from the Egyptian root mr).

Noemi is a charming Latin spin on Naomi; another twist is Neomi. A quiet mainstay on the US Top 1000 since 1957, Noemi was one of the fastest rising names in 2023.

Odette is the good swan in Tchaikovsky's ballet Swan Lake, a role for which Natalie Portman won an Oscar ---and it would make a particularly soigne, sophisticated yet upbeat choice, unlike some of the more dated other 'ette'-ending names.

Odette's evil Swan Lake twin -- gives the name a sinuous, sensuous appeal.

Though this name properly takes an accent over the first e, most Americans would probably have trouble pronouncing it with French elan.