French Names List

Esmé comes from the past participle of the Old French verb esmer, meaing "to esteem" or "to love." It can also be considered a derivative of the Spanish name Esmeralda, which means "emerald".

The Dorians were an ancient Greek tribe, one of the three major pre-Spartan tribes. It literally means "of Doris," a Greek district, or "of Doros," referring to the son of Helen of Sparta. Dorian derives from the Greek doron, meaning "gift," along with related names such as Dorothy and Dora.

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.

Anais is an unusual, alluring name forever attached to the daring French-born American novelist and diarist Anais Nin (born Angela, with Anais as one of her middle names), who became the inspiration for the naming of the daughter of musician Noel Gallagher. Anais is also the name of a popular perfume.

Anouk, made famous by French actress Anouk Aimée, is a singular name with a lovely sound and a Bohemian feel. Anouk Aimée was born as Francoise, but adopted the first name of the character she played in her debut film.

Jolie is as pretty as its literal meaning; nowadays it is also seen as a girls’ name, via Angelina for whom Jolie was originally her middle name.

Since the first production of Camille this has been considered one of the world's most romantic names, though it's one of those French names for boys rarely heard in this country.

Corentin is an intriguing saint's name fashionable in France but virtually unknown here-- which you may consider a big plus. St. Corentin possessed a magical fish that regenerated itself each night, feeding himself and his lucky visitors in perpetuity.

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.

The kind of French name that seemed daring -- and darling -- in the sixties.

Unique baby name and poetic Gallic choice. Guillaume Apollinaire was a French poet and novelist active in the early 20th century arts community, who is said to have coined the terms cubism and surrealism. He based his unique surname de plume on his Polish middle name, Apolinary.

Anselme is a masculine name of Germanic origin, derived from 'ans' meaning 'god' and 'helm' meaning 'helmet' or 'protection,' thus signifying 'divine helmet' or 'protected by God.' It's the French variation of Anselm, a name carried by several notable historical figures, including Saint Anselm of Canterbury, an important medieval philosopher and theologian. Though never extremely common, Anselme has maintained steady usage in French-speaking regions throughout the centuries. The name carries connotations of wisdom, divine protection, and intellectual strength. Its dignified sound and rich historical associations make it appealing for parents seeking a distinguished yet uncommon name with European flair and spiritual undertones.

Bijoux is a distinctive feminine name derived from the French word meaning 'jewels' or 'jewelry.' As a personal name, it conveys notions of preciousness, beauty, and value. The unique spelling with the 'x' gives it an exotic and sophisticated flair, while the pronunciation (bee-ZHOO) adds a melodic quality. Though rare as a given name in most countries, Bijoux has occasional usage in French-speaking regions and among parents drawn to names with French origins. Its appeal lies in its combination of delicacy and distinctiveness, offering a rare gem in the world of names. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its artistic associations and the way it suggests something treasured and special.