1200+ French Names (with Meanings and Popularity)

Proof that a name can be too feminine.

A modern twist on Michelle spotlighted by Star Trek actress Nichelle Nichols.

Oriana's not-quite-as-pretty French cousin.

Creative surname choice, associated with the great French postimpressionist Edouard Villard.

Gilding the lily.

This surname-name comes with some great connotations: Addie Ballou the American feminist, Kurt Ballou — guitarist with the band Converge, or Adin Ballou — abolitionist and pacifist. It has a trendy, whimsical sound that sets it apart from more traditional surnames like Cooper, Hunter, and Archer and puts it more in the camp of the softer international names like Aaru, Bayou, and Finlo.

Sweet and endearing, à la Mignon and Manon.

Creative choice relating to the Lithuanian-born expressionist painter known for his bold, vibrantly colored canvases.

Balletic, à la pirouette.

A French word name that could be a fresh spin on Summer or Autumn.

Straightforward surname with potential thanks to the rise of Carson. The actress Greer Garson gives it a splash of Hollywood glamor.