Francophile Naming Guide -- Curiousities of Medieval France for Girls
- Ide
Description:
Ide is a concise feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Irish tradition, it derives from the Gaelic 'Íde,' the Irish form of Ita, a revered 6th-century saint known as the 'foster mother of the saints of Ireland.' In Germanic contexts, Ide may be a shortened form of names containing the element 'id' meaning 'work' or 'labor.' The name also appears in Japanese culture with different meanings. This cross-cultural presence gives Ide a universal quality despite its brevity. The name's simplicity offers a minimalist elegance, with its single-syllable structure contrasting with today's trend toward longer names. Though uncommon in most Western countries, Ide provides a distinctive option for parents seeking a short, meaningful name with historical depth.
- Isabeau
Origin:
French variation of IsabelMeaning:
"pledged to God"Description:
With Isabel getting so popular, parents are searching for new varieties of the name, and Isabeau is one that makes a lovely French twist.
- Ingeberge
- Ingonde
- Irmengard
- Julienne
Origin:
French from LatinMeaning:
"youthful or sky father"Description:
Fine in France, but here it means vegetables sliced into thin strips.
- Jacobee
- Kathlin
Description:
Kathlin is a feminine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Kathleen or Caitlin. These names share Celtic origins, derived from the Irish name Caitlín, which itself comes from Catherine (ultimately from the Greek name Aikaterine, of debated etymology). This particular spelling variation gives the name a slightly different visual character while maintaining similar pronunciation to more common forms. Kathlin combines traditional roots with a less conventional spelling, potentially appealing to parents who appreciate the classic name's history but desire something slightly distinctive. Though never widely popular, this spelling variant has appeared occasionally throughout the 20th century, particularly in regions with strong Irish or Scottish influence.
- Laurette
Description:
Laurette is a delicate feminine name of French origin, functioning as a diminutive of Laura or Lauren. Derived from the Latin 'laurus' meaning 'laurel tree' or 'sweet bay tree,' the laurel wreath has historically been a symbol of victory and honor in classical antiquity. The addition of the feminine French suffix '-ette' gives it a particularly dainty and graceful quality. Laurette enjoyed some popularity in France throughout history and saw limited usage in the United States during the early 20th century. Though uncommon today, it maintains a timeless charm with its melodic sound and cultural heritage. The name evokes images of artistic French culture and carries a soft, romantic quality.
- Leonelle
Description:
Leonelle is a feminine name that likely functions as an elaborated form of Leona, meaning "lioness," or as a feminine version of Lionel, which derives from Latin "leoninus" meaning "lion-like." This elegant name carries connotations of strength and nobility through its leonine associations. With its French-inspired ending, Leonelle has a sophisticated, somewhat aristocratic quality. Though quite rare in usage, the name offers an uncommon alternative to more familiar Leo-derived names while maintaining recognizable roots. Its three-syllable structure creates a melodic rhythm, and the soft ending gives it a distinctly feminine character despite its strong etymological connections to the lion, traditionally a symbol of courage and power.
- Letice
Description:
Letice is a feminine name that represents a historical variant of Letitia or Laetitia, derived from the Latin word 'laetitia' meaning 'joy' or 'happiness.' This medieval spelling was once more common in England, particularly during the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods. The name carries associations with gladness and delight through its etymological roots. Letice has a delicate, antique quality that distinguishes it from more common contemporary names. While relatively rare in modern usage, it might appeal to parents drawn to vintage names with historical depth. The name's connection to happiness and its gentle sound, typically pronounced LEH-tiss, gives it a positive and graceful character while maintaining its distinctive Old-World charm.
- Lefieltna
- Liutgarda
- Liégarde
- Mathilde
Origin:
French; Norwegian; Danish; Dutch; German, variation of MatildaMeaning:
"battle-mighty"Description:
Mathilde is even more popular in France than Matilda, a hipster favorite thanks to Michelle Williams and Heath Ledger, is here. And the French pronunciation, while confusing to English speakers, makes it softer and prettier than the version we're more familiar with. It's also very popular in Denmark and Noway, pronounced closer to the English variant.
- Maud
Origin:
English and French diminutive of Matilda, GermanMeaning:
"battle-mighty"Description:
Maud, lacy and mauve-tinted, was wildly popular a hundred years ago but has been rarely heard in the past fifty. Some stylish parents are starting to choose Maud again, especially as a middle. Maude is another spelling, associated with actress Maude Apatow.
- Milicent
Description:
Milicent is a feminine name that represents a variant spelling of Millicent, which derives from the Old Germanic name Amalasuintha, meaning "work" and "strength." This elegant name carries connotations of determination and resilience. Popular in medieval England following the Norman Conquest, Milicent's usage declined over centuries before experiencing brief revivals. The spelling variant Milicent is considerably rarer than the traditional Millicent, giving it a distinctive quality. Though uncommon in contemporary times, the name maintains an air of vintage sophistication and refinement with its flowing syllables and historical depth, appealing to parents seeking a name with classical elegance and strong meaning.
- Mabile
- Mahaut
- Maheuf