1200+ French Names (with Meanings and Popularity)
- Paule
Origin:
French, feminine variation of PaulDescription:
This, the simplest French female version of Paul, was brought into the U. S. mix by novelist Paule Marshall, whose roots are in the West Indies.
- Vere
- Madelaine
Origin:
French variation of MadeleineMeaning:
"high tower"Description:
This spelling gives the name favorite an Elaine spin.
- Narcisse
- Etienette
- Claudian
- Muguet
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"lily"Description:
One of the few French words/names not attractive to the American ear. It's pronounced moo-gay, not a winner on either syllable. Alternatives: Liliane, Lily, Lilou, Manon.
- Tu
Origin:
French, intimate form of "you"Meaning:
"you"Description:
The onetime star of "Northern Exposure" named his daughter Tu Morrow. Think about it.
- Sabienne
- Garson
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"to protect"Description:
Straightforward surname with potential thanks to the rise of Carson. The actress Greer Garson gives it a splash of Hollywood glamor.
- Magdala
- Appoline
- Manette
Origin:
French, diminutive of MarieDescription:
Manette might be a fresh way to spin Mary or Marie, but popular French Manon has more grace and heft. Manet takes Manette in an artistic direction.
- Léandre
- Armel
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"bear prince"Description:
The name of a sixth century Welsh saint who founded abbeys in Brittany, reconstituted for a modern girl.
- Maurice
Origin:
English and French from LatinMeaning:
"dark-skinned"Description:
One of those old-mannish names that sounds a lot fresher for a girl.
- Chandelle
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"candle"Description:
Sounds classy...but isn't.
- Corneille
- Chardonnay
Origin:
French, a dry white wineDescription:
If you're actually considering this as a name for your child, you must have had a glass too many. But it's an awesome name for a white cat.
- Talie