French Names

A long-integrated French feminine form of Adrian, now overshadowed by the a-ending version, but still a valid option, with considerable substance and dignity—though these days more parents would probably choose Adriana.

Albertine and Alberta are old-fashioned feminizations ala Geraldine and Roberta. This is the kind of name that sounds very dowdy until a hip celebrity chooses it, at which point we don't know how we missed its coolness all this time.

A chic and sassy French choice, popular in France but likely to be confused with the more prosaic Alex in English-speaking countries. Although sometimes used in the US as a variant spelling of Alex, the French name Alix actually derives from a medieval French form of the name Alice or Adelaide.

Rarely used, and for good reason. Alonzo is a preferable choice.

Amable is a feminine name of Latin origin, derived directly from the Latin word 'amabilis' meaning 'lovable' or 'worthy of love.' In Spanish-speaking countries, where it's used for both genders, it also functions as an adjective meaning 'kind' or 'gentle.' This dual nature enhances its appeal as a virtue name conveying positive character traits. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, Amable has maintained modest usage throughout the Spanish-speaking world. The name's soft sounds and uplifting meaning give it a warm, approachable quality. For parents seeking a name with explicit positive connotations, Amable offers both linguistic clarity and cultural richness, embodying kindness and amiability as desirable qualities for their daughter.

Emily gets a Bohemian spin and a French accent when it becomes Amelie. This favorite among French girl names has been gaining notice here thanks to the charming 2001 French film Amelie; it entered the American popularity list in 2002 and is now solidly established in the Top 1000.

With Angelina becoming so popular thanks to Ms. Jolie, this could be a new twist—but everyone will always misunderstand it as Angelina. While it currently ranks at Number 951 in the US, it's Number 352 in France.

Angelique was the fastest-rising girl name of 2021, influenced by French-Mexican actress Angelique Boyer, who starred in the telenovela Imperio de mentiras (Empire of Lies).

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.

This feminization of Anthony, like other early French forms, such as Babette and Nanette, is not heard as often as it once was, but it could be time for a reappraisal of this delicate Gallic choice.

Soft and delicate French name rarely heard here.

While not as popular as the Ariel spelling of Little Mermaid fame, this rendition has achieved popularity in its own right.

French version of August, for both sexes. And for those who feel the spelling of August is too plain.

Aurore is a feminine name of Latin origin meaning 'dawn.' It's the French form of Aurora, the Roman goddess of the morning. The name evokes images of daybreak, new beginnings, and golden light. In French-speaking countries, particularly France and Canada, Aurore has maintained steady popularity over the centuries. The name carries an air of classic elegance and natural beauty. Its literary connections include the protagonist of George Sand's novel 'Histoire de ma vie.' While less common in English-speaking regions, Aurore offers an alternative to the more widely used Aurora. The name's soft sounds and romantic associations give it a timeless quality. Parents might choose Aurore for its subtle French sophistication or meaningful connection to light and renewal.

The French Canadian pop star Avril Lavigne put the spotlight on this name when she made the charts with "Sk8er Boi". It is simply the French form of April, the fourth month of the year, whose name might derive from the Latin aperire meaning "to open" in reference to the start of spring in the Northern hemisphere. Other sources suggest it comes from the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite.

Putting the emphasis on the "elle" softens a name that seems at once futuristic and medieval.

A less common relic of the Claudette-Paulette-Annette era.

In this form, or as Sebastian or as Bas, Bastien is a fashionable Euro name with a possible future in America.