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French Names

  1. Nathalie

    • Description:

      A French variation of Natalie that's used occasionally in contemporary America. In England and Wales Natalie remains about 10 times as popular as Nathalie.
  2. Emilie

    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Emily; German and Scandinavian feminine form of Aemilius

    • Description:

      Unlike most creative spellings, this one isn't overly trendy or overdone—in fact, it's quite delicate and pretty. However, it is clearly suffering from the plethora of similar names that are flowing around right now (Emelie, Emilia, Emily, Emilee, Amelie, Amelia) and has fallen more than 300 spots since 2013. It might be time for Emilie and her sisters to be left alone for a while.
  3. Baptiste

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "baptist"

    • Description:

      Traditionally used by the ultrareligious, the French boys' name Baptiste comes from the Greek word meaning "to dip". Baptiste is one of the Top 100 Boy Names in France.
  4. Ophelie

    • Origin:

      French variation of Ophelia

    • Meaning:

      "help"

    • Description:

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

    • Origin:

      French variation of Alexander

    • Meaning:

      "defending men"

    • Description:

      What's the difference between Alexander, the usual English spelling of this deeply classical name, and Alexandre, the French version? English speakers might find the proper French pronunciation challenging: a-lehk-SAHN-dreh, but that last syllable is barely pronounced. Americans might an an a or an ee on the end of the name, or simply pronounce it as Alexander, for better or worse.
  6. Maxime

    • Origin:

      French variation of Maximus

    • Description:

      Common in France, but could be confused with the feminine Maxine here.
  7. Oceane

    • Origin:

      French

    • Meaning:

      "ocean"

    • Description:

      Oceane (oh-see-EN) has been one of the chicest names in France for several years, ranking in the French Top 50. This is a sophisticated name that could easily cross the ocean, and is much more stylish than the English Ocean or Oceana.
  8. 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.

  9. Guillaume

    • Origin:

      French variation of William

    • Description:

      An everyday name in France, a charismatic possibility here.
  10. Anaise

    • Origin:

      Variation of Anais

    • Description:

      Anais, the name forever attached to the daring French-born American novelist and diarist Anais Nin, is unusual and French enough without appending an e, though some may think it clarifies pronunciation.
  11. Romain

    • Description:

      Romain is a masculine name of French origin derived from the Latin 'Romanus,' meaning 'Roman' or 'from Rome.' This classic name has been used in France for centuries, honoring the historical significance of Roman culture. It remains quite popular in French-speaking regions while maintaining a sophisticated, international appeal elsewhere. The name carries connotations of strength and civility, reflecting the cultural impact of the Roman Empire. In English-speaking countries, Romain offers a distinctive alternative to the more common Roman. Notable bearers include French writers, athletes, and artists, which has helped maintain its cultural relevance. The name has a refined, intellectual quality while still sounding strong and masculine. Its pronunciation (ro-MAN) adds to its elegant, continental character, making it appealing for parents seeking a name with European sophistication.

  12. Sebastien

    • Origin:

      French and Czech variation of Sebastian, Latin, Greek

    • Meaning:

      "from Sebaste"

    • Description:

      Also spelled as Sébastien, this is the French and Czech form of the cotemporary (yet ancient) favorite, Sebastian. Derived from the name of ancient city who got its name from a Greek word for "venerable", this spelling adds something gentler and elegant to to the name.