Francophile Naming Guide -- Le Monde de Molière

Alain gives the midcentury Alan a bit of gallic dash.

Albert has acquired a new gloss as one of the top royal baby boy names, a considerable upgrade from its serious, studious image (think Einstein, Schweitzer).

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

This name woould be hard to picture in a contemporary kindergarten, though it does have some cultural cred via Finnish architect and furniture designer Alvar Aalto. Aalto would actually make a more interesting choice.

Gilding the lily.

Proof that a name can be too feminine.

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.

Feminine form of Armand, has an elegant charm.

Carlos is the Spanish and Portuguese variation of Charles, which has been used in solid numbers in the US for as long as data has been kept. Carlos has never fallen out of the Top 600, but peaked from the 70s-early 2000s. Today Carlos is still within the Top 200. Notable namesakes include musician Santana, writers Fuentes and Castaneda, and numerous athletes. Carlos Irwin Estevez is the birth name of Charlie Sheen.

Charlotte, the name of the young Princess of Cambridge, is the latest classic name to join Sophia, Emma, Olivia, and Isabella at the top of the popularity list. It is now among the most popular girl names in many English-speaking and European countries.

Yes, we tend to think of Claude as a male name and Claudia and Claudette as the female, but this ancient clan name is used in France for girls as well as boys, and could make a distinctively chic boy name for girls here too. You may be surprised to know that Claude was in fairly regular use for American girls in the 1880's and nineties, reaching as high as 553 in 1880.

There are much chicer versions of this name today, such as Claudie, Claudia, or Claude itself. Claudine is a name wobbling on the edge of extinction.

Thanks to its dashing Anglo-Irish image — due partly to Colins Firth and Farrell — and its C-initialed two-syllable sound, Colin and its cousin Collin have enjoyed a long run of popularity, reaching as high as Number 84 in 2004.

Cynthie is a feminine name that serves as a diminutive form of Cynthia, which derives from Greek mythology as an epithet of Artemis, goddess of the moon, who was born on Mount Cynthus. This variation adds a sweet, informal quality to the classic name through the '-ie' ending. While Cynthia saw peak popularity in the mid-20th century, Cynthie remains relatively uncommon, offering a slightly distinctive alternative to the more traditional form. The name carries the same lunar associations as Cynthia, evoking celestial imagery and mythology. Cynthie creates a friendly, approachable impression while maintaining connections to its more formal counterpart and its rich classical heritage.

Dorine is a feminine name of French origin, derived as a diminutive form of Dora or Dorothy, which ultimately comes from the Greek name Dorothea meaning 'gift of God.' Popular in France during the early 20th century, Dorine has a delicate, classical quality. The name appears as a character in Molière's classic French play 'Tartuffe,' adding literary significance to its appeal. While never extremely common in English-speaking countries, Dorine experienced modest popularity in the 1920s and 1930s. The name carries a vintage charm with its soft sounds and elegant simplicity, appealing to parents seeking something traditional yet uncommon.

Elmire is a feminine name of French origin, possibly derived from the Germanic elements 'alja' meaning 'other, foreign' and 'meri' meaning 'famous, illustrious.' The name gained literary recognition through Molière's play 'Tartuffe,' where Elmire is a central character known for her wisdom and virtue. Uncommon in modern usage, Elmire has an antique charm that evokes 17th-century French elegance. The name carries a delicate yet sophisticated quality, blending melodic sounds with historical depth. While rarely used in English-speaking countries, it might appeal to parents seeking a name with literary connections and a distinctive French flair that remains accessible in pronunciation.

Elvire is a feminine name of Germanic origin, derived from the elements 'elf' or 'magical being' and 'true' or 'faithful.' It's the French form of Elvira, which has been used throughout Europe since medieval times. The name carries an elegant, somewhat mysterious quality with its connection to mythological beings and Old World charm. Elvire has been particularly used in French-speaking regions and has literary connections, appearing in works by Victor Hugo and Alphonse de Lamartine. While never reaching widespread popularity in English-speaking countries, the name maintains a sophisticated European flair that appeals to parents seeking something uncommon yet historically grounded. The name's rich vowel sounds give it a melodic quality that feels both classic and distinctive.

This is an appealing name that could cross cultural borders, but it has lost ground in recent years.

Iconoclasts though we may be, we like Fred, we like Frank, and we like George, which was among the Top 10 from 1830 to 1950, when the number of little Georges started to decline. Solid, strong, royal and saintly, yet friendly and unpretentious, we think that George is in prime position for a comeback, especially since it was chosen by Britain's royal couple.

Has a musty 1940s feel. Try Georgia -- or Georgiana.

An everyday name in France, a charismatic possibility here.

Henriette is to Henri (or Henry) what Charlotte is to Charles. Yet this elegant French name is surprisingly rare in the States.

The ancient name Horace sounds fustily fuddy-duddy, and yet, with the resurrection of Homer, and the new interest in old Roman names...who knows.

Isabelle is the French variation of Isabel, which emerged in the Middle ages as an Occitan form of Elizabeth. Medieval queens Isabella of Angoulême and Isabella of France helped popularize the name in the United Kingdom. Isobel is the Scottish version, Isabella the Italian, and Izabel is used in Brazil.

Jacqueline originated as a feminine form of Jacques, the French variation of James, and therefore Jacob. Jacob was ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Ya’aqov, and gets its meaning, "supplanter" from the story of Jacob supplanting his brother Esau as the first-born son in the Bible. Jacqueline was first used in France in the Middle Ages.

Regal and ancient feeling, Jacques has been declining in popularity in its native France, but in the UK, it saw a surprising revival in 2022. Jumping from somewhere around the #2500 mark straight to #600, it was seven times more popular than in 2021.

Jeannot is a charming masculine French diminutive of Jean (the French equivalent of John). The '-ot' suffix traditionally indicates affection or endearment in French naming customs. The name ultimately derives from Hebrew origins meaning 'God is gracious.' Jeannot has a playful, affectionate quality while maintaining a distinctly French character. While common in French-speaking regions historically, especially as a nickname, it's relatively uncommon as a formal given name, particularly outside Francophone communities. The name carries a certain rustic charm and cultural specificity, evoking images of rural French life. For parents seeking a name with authentic French heritage and a friendly, approachable quality, Jeannot offers distinctive cultural connections.

Juan, the Spanish version of John, is ubiquitous in the Spanish-speaking world, and is familiar internationally via such references as Don Juan and San Juan.

Wildly popular in the 1960s and '70s, Julie is no longer anywhere near as stylish as the name's longer forms. Try Juliet, Juliana, or even the more grownup Julia.

Julien is the handsome French form of Julian, which derives from Julius, a Roman family name. Its origin is shrouded in history, but possible roots include Latin iuvenis, meaning "youthfu"; Greek ioulos, meaning "downy-bearded"; or Jovis, a form of Jupiter, which means "sky father".

Jupiter's partner Juno has entered the mainstream, so it's possible that her divine mate could follow. But not necessarily for boys — Jupiter is currently mostly female in the US, thanks to its similarity to Juniper. Stars including Ed Sheeran and Ashley Tisdale recently welcomed daughters named Jupiter, which could shift the balance even more towards the girls.

Lisette, also spelled Lizette, is a dainty,, if somewhat dated, Gallic offshoot of Elizabeth. It reached its U.S. peak of popularity in 1999, then fell off the list in 2001.

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.

Loyal is one of the few virtue names suitable for boys, an honorable and principled Boy Scout-esque appellation with a surprisingly long and distinguished history.

Lucas is a Top 10 boys' name with a slightly-less-popular almost-identical twin brother, Luke. Like Elijah and Elias, Lucas and Luke come from the same root and have the same meaning and so feel even more popular than they are.

Popular in the 1930s in France, this is a diminutive of Lucy (or Lucie).

Lucille and its alternate spelling Lucile are both popular in France, but in the US, Lucy rules with the more-antiquated sounding Lucille a distant second. Lucile fell off the Top 1000 more than 60 years ago and it's hard to imagine what might make this spelling preferable to the original. As with Jenifer, subtracting that letter doesn't add anything.

Lucinde is a feminine name with French and Latin origins, derived from Lucinda or directly from Latin 'lux' meaning 'light.' This elegant variation carries a slightly more European flair than the more common Lucinda, with its softened ending. Historically, the name appeared in literary works, including Molière's plays, giving it cultural and artistic associations. While never achieving widespread popularity, Lucinde maintains an aristocratic, refined quality that appeals to parents seeking something distinctive yet classically grounded. The name suggests brilliance, clarity, and illumination through its connection to light. Its melodic three-syllable structure flows gracefully in pronunciation while offering a subtle uniqueness in spelling that distinguishes it from more familiar feminine names with similar sounds.

Lucrèce is a feminine French name derived from the Latin 'Lucretia.' It has ancient Roman roots, referring to a noblewoman in Roman history whose tragic fate influenced the establishment of the Roman Republic. The name suggests nobility, virtue, and moral strength. The French spelling with the grave accent adds a touch of elegance and cultural refinement. While never extremely common, Lucrèce has maintained a presence in French-speaking countries, particularly among families with appreciation for classical culture. The name carries literary and historical associations, as it was featured in works by Shakespeare and other notable writers.

Léandre is a masculine name of Greek origin, derived from the mythological figure Leander who swam across the Hellespont nightly to visit his beloved Hero. The name combines the Greek elements 'leon' meaning 'lion' and 'andros' meaning 'man,' suggesting strength and courage. Particularly popular in French-speaking regions and Quebec, Léandre carries a sophisticated European flair with its accent mark. The name has classical roots while maintaining a contemporary feel. Though not common in English-speaking countries, it has steady popularity in Francophone areas. Léandre offers a distinguished alternative to more common names while providing the friendly nickname Leo or Léo. Its mythological associations add depth and romantic significance.

Variant of Marianne

Sleek and sophisticated.

Nicole was derived from Nicholas, the English variation of the Greek Nikolaos, composed of the compounds nike, meaning "victory," and laos, "people." The variation Nicole arose in the Middle Ages in France to honor St. Nicholas. Names related to Nicole include Colette, Nicolette, Nika, Nicola, and Nicolina.

Octave shortens Octavius to a more manageable length, keeping the "eighth" meaning. In English speaking countries, however, people could easily confuse this with the musical term octave.

Pernelle is a feminine name of French origin, historically functioning as a feminine form of Peter (Pierre in French), ultimately derived from the Greek 'petros' meaning 'rock' or 'stone.' This elegant medieval name was notably borne by Pernelle Flamel, wife of the famous 14th-century alchemist Nicolas Flamel. The name carries an air of mystique and historical gravitas while maintaining a delicate, feminine sound. Though uncommon in the modern era, Pernelle retains appeal for those drawn to rare French names with historical significance. Its recognizable structure makes it accessible despite its rarity. The name offers a sophisticated alternative to more common female forms of Peter such as Petra or Petrina, perfect for parents seeking a name that combines historical depth with melodic elegance.

Perrin has been in long use as a surname, derived from Peter, and is now used quietly as a first name. It may rise higher now that it's a character name in the popular TV adaptation of Robert Jordan's fantasy novel series The Wheel of Time.

Pierrot is a masculine name of French origin, derived from the diminutive form of Pierre, the French version of Peter. Historically, Pierrot became widely known as a stock character from traditional French pantomime and commedia dell'arte, typically portrayed as a sad clown with a white face, loose white clothing, and often an unrequited love for Columbine. The character has influenced art, music, and literature across centuries, giving the name rich cultural associations. Though uncommon as a given name in English-speaking countries, Pierrot maintains some usage in French-speaking regions. The name carries artistic and theatrical connotations, evoking a poetic sensitivity and somewhat melancholic charm. Its distinctive sound makes it both recognizable and unique.

Robert was the Number 1 boys' name in the US in both 1925 and 1950, and in fact was in the Top 25 for more than a century, giving it true classic status. Strong if not quite stylish, Robert remains in the Top 100 for baby boys as a family favorite.

This slightly more compact version of Sabina has ties to France and Germany. Unlike its sister name, Sabine has never charted in the United States Top 1000. Today, both names are given to roughly the same number of baby girls in the US, about 70 each year.

Simon is pure and simple (not in the nursery rhyme sense), and an appealingly genuine Old and New Testament name that's not overused. These factors make Simon a stylish yet classic choice.

A common first and last name in France and, especially, Belgium, more often spelled Thibault.

A solid classic with plenty of history, Thomas strikes the balance between strength and gentleness. A favorite in the UK, a staple in France, and Australia, and never absent from the US Top 100, Thomas feels like a safe bet and a name that fits into any era.

Probably too close for comfort to "toilette." Antonia conveys the same idea with a more mellifluous sound.