French BCBG Names

Ignace is the French form of Ignatius, derived from the Latin name Ignatius, which may come from the Roman family name Egnatius of Etruscan origin. The name gained prominence through St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuit order. Ignace combines religious heritage with a sophisticated French flair. While never extremely common, it has maintained steady usage particularly in French-speaking regions and Catholic communities. The name carries connotations of intellectual depth, spiritual devotion, and cultural refinement. Its pronunciation (roughly ee-NYASS) adds a melodic quality that distinguishes it from the more formal Ignatius while retaining its historical significance.

Pronounced just like Jean in the English-speaking world, but as the more unusual zhahn in France, this has sailed away with the first wave of French favorites: Denise, Michelle, et soeurs.

Kate and William shocked the world when they announced that they'd named their third child Louis -- Prince Louis Arthur Charles, to be more precise. But we've been predicting a comeback for this classic name for a long time.

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.

Marguerite is a classic French name with a remnant of old-fashioned Gallic charm; and is also a variety of daisy. Chic again in Paris, it's definitely ripe for revival here.

The ubiquitous French version of Mary came into the English-speaking world in the nineteenth century. In the United States, Marie was a huge hit at the turn of the last century and for the ensuing fifty years, becoming the seventh most popular name in the country for three years, from 1901 to 1904.

One of those quintessentiallyFrench names still wearing a beret, also too tied to the image of tires.

Sibylle is a feminine name with ancient roots, derived from the Greek 'Sibylla', referring to female prophets or oracles in ancient Greece and Rome. These sibyls were revered for their wisdom and prophetic abilities. The name has been used throughout European history, particularly in German, French, and Swiss regions. While never extremely common, Sibylle has maintained a steady presence, especially in continental Europe. It carries an air of mystique and classical elegance, often associated with wisdom and foresight. The name experienced modest popularity in the mid-20th century in French-speaking and Germanic countries. Variations include Sibyl, Sybil, and Sibilla.

While Sixtine is a name with ancient roots that's popular in modern-day France, it's hard to imagine it gaining hold in English-speaking lands, given its similarity to the number sixteen and its even-more-problematic similarity to the word "sexting." You wouldn't do that to your daughter.

Thibaud is a masculine French name derived from the Germanic elements 'theud' meaning 'people' or 'race' and 'bald' meaning 'bold' or 'brave.' This classic name, also spelled Thibaut or Thibault in French and related to Theobald in English, has deep historical roots in medieval France. It was borne by several Counts of Champagne during the Middle Ages, including Thibaud IV who was also King of Navarre and a noted poet-composer. The name carries an aristocratic air while maintaining a certain softness in pronunciation. While not among the most popular names in modern France, it retains an elegant, traditional appeal. Thibaud offers parents a name with substantial historical weight and French cultural connections, appealing to those seeking a distinctive yet established choice with noble associations.

Ulysse is the French form of Ulysses, derived from the Latin Ulixes and Greek Odysseus, the legendary hero of Homer's epic poem "The Odyssey." This masculine name embodies qualities of cunning intelligence, resourcefulness, and perseverance through adversity. In France and other French-speaking regions, Ulysse maintains modest popularity and carries connotations of classical education and cultural sophistication. The name suggests a journey or adventure, reflecting the decade-long voyage of its namesake. With its classical roots yet distinctive sound, Ulysse appeals to parents seeking a name with historical depth that remains relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries while being recognized internationally.

Adds French flair to Victoria, though many Americans would find pronunciation a challenge.