270+ French Boy Names

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.

Though Patrice is still common for boys in France, it has long been feminine here.

Feminine, à la Beryl and Merrill.

One of the more subtle of the names with a royal meaning, Delroy has a vintage flavor and would be a distinctive choice today.

Rhythmic and energetic, Drury is of French origin, with the wonderful meaning of "dear one, sweetheart."

Owain is much more unusual than its brother name Owen, and feels a little more rugged, a little more adventurous and ancient.

Strong, solid surname name. For many this name will be inextricably linked with former Vice President Dick Cheney - a hinderance or a virtue, depending on your political leanings.

Dashing unisex saint's name sometimes associated with the Cajun cadences of New Orleans.

This name's all-male occupational roots help it break the Barbara bonds, but still not the most inspiring surname choice.

Old-timey surname that's been very rarely used.

This could be a fresh way to honor an ancestral Walter.

Offers much less than Bay.

Hervé was a legendary French saint, patron of the blind, who performed many miracles -- it's a lot more sophisticated than the English Harvey.

Attractive if phonetically confusing; also pronounced exactly the same as the Renault car.

Unusual saint's name rarely heard outside Roman Catholic rectories until it made an appearance on a reality-TV show; has an attractive French feel.

This title of honor given to Charlemagne's twelve best knights would be prized as a name by most sword-loving little boys.