France is also known for its romantic and elegant language, providing the perfect inspiration for baby names. There are many reasons to consider a French name for your child. It may be to honor your ancestry—or maybe you’re just into all things France, you love the sound of the name, or you’re looking for something a little different. French names can represent prominent figures in art and science such as Claude and Louis, or saints such as Claire and Dominque. They can be trendy like Gabrielle and Leo or uniquely French like Fleur and François. Read on to learn about 100 popular and unique French baby names that are très magnifique!
Popular French Baby Names for Girls
Here are some popular and unique French baby names for girls along with their meanings, origins, and other interesting information.
Brice: French, English, Scottish; Speckled, son of a noblemanCamille: English, Latin, French; Girl in white, religious attendantCharlotte: French, English, Old German; Strong and freeCharles: French, German, Teutonic; Strong and manly, free man, farmerChloé: French, Greek; Flourishing and bloomingGabriel: French, Hebrew; God is the strength and heroGenevieve: French, German, Celtic; Belonging to the tribe or race of womenJosephine: French; God will add or increaseLeo: French, English, Latin, Greek; Bold like a lionZoe: French, Greek; Vibrant and full of life
Aimée
Origin: French Meaning: Beloved Alternative Spellings & Variations: Aime, Aimey, Aimee, Aimia, Aimie, Aimy, Aimya, Amey, Amie Famous Namesakes: American actor Aimee Carrero, Canadian actor Aimée Leigh, British actor Aimee Kelly, Peak Popularity: Aimee was fairly popular in the United States in the 1970s and 80s. In 1976, it reached a rank of 123 on the top 1,000 list of names for girls. It fell out of the top 1,000 in 2016.
Antoinette
Origin: French, LatinMeaning: PraiseworthyAlternative Spellings & Variations: Antonetta, Antonella, Antonine, AntoniaFamous Namesakes: Queen Consort of Louis XVI Marie Antoinette (born Maria Antonia Josepha Johanna), ballerina Antoinette Sibley, actor/director Antoinette Perry, first ordained woman minister in the U.S. Antoinette Louisa Brown, English-American singer Antoinette SterlingPeak Popularity: Antoinette is a name that has been around for centuries. It was number 990 in 1914 and peaked in 1960 at number 666. It dropped off the top 1,000 list in 1989.
Bernadette
Origin: French, English, TeutonicMeaning: Brave as a bearAlternative Spellings & Variations: Bernita, Bernetta, Bernardette, Bernadina, Bernadene, Bernette, Bernarda, BernedieneFamous Namesakes: American actor and singer Bernadette Peters, former First Lady of France Bernadette Chirac, American actress Bernadette Yao, French actor Bernadette Lafonte,Peak Popularity: Bernadette had its best year when it reached number 188 in 1946. Since then, it has become a less common name and has not appeared in the top 1,000 in the U.S. since 1993.
Blanche
Origin: FrenchMeaning: White and fairAlternative Spellings & Variations: Blanchette, Blanch, Blanca, BiancaFamous Namesakes: Queen-consort of Lous VII of France Blanche of Castile, mother of King Henry IV of England Blanche of Lancaster, American actor Blanche Baker, American actor Blanche Bates, American actor and poet Blanche Marie Louise Oelrichs, French actor Blanche Ravalec, American operatic soprano Blanche Thebom, American actor Blanche Walsh, American author and illustrator Blanche McManusPeak Popularity: Blanche is a vintage name that is centuries old. It was a top 100 name in the early 1900s (peaking at number 58 in 1902) but slowly declined in use from 1920 to 1960. It was no longer a top 1,000 name by 1965. Blanche may be ready for a comeback.
Camille
Origin: English, Latin, French Meaning: Girl in white, religious attendant Alternative Spellings & Variations: Camilla, Camia, Camiel, Camile, Camilia, Camill, Camilya, Cammille, Cammyl, Camylle, Chamelea, Chamelle, Camielle, Camil, Camillia, Cammilla, Cammillie, Cammilyn, Cammyll, Camyle, Camyll, Chamelia, Chamika, Chamila, Chamilia, Chamille, Kamille Famous Namesakes: French-Swiss violinist Camille Berthollet, French sculptor Camille Claudel, American actress and model Camille Constance Anderson, American academic and social critic Camille Anna Paglia, American reality TV personality and ex-wife of actor Kelsey Grammar Camille Grammar, American tennis player Cammile Benjamin, American pop singer Camille Marie Filfiley, French artist Camille Henrot, American Sports Illustrated swimsuit model Camille Kostek Peak Popularity: Camille was a historically male name that became a female name in the last 150 years or so. In 1911 and 1915, it was in the top 1000 names for boys. For girls in the U.S., Camille was number 496 in 1900 and had its most popular year in 2012 when it hit number 238.
Chanel
Origin: French, EnglishMeaning: From the canal or channelAlternative Spellings & Variations: Chanal, Chaneel, Chanei, Chanele, Chane, Chanelle, Channal, Channel, Channell, Channelle, Chenel, Chenell, Chenelle, Shanel, Shanell, Shanelle, Shannel, Shannelle, Shenelle, ShynelleFamous Namesakes: French fashion designer Gabriele Bonheur “Coco” Chanel, American supermodel Chanel Iman, English actor Chanel Cresswell, American screenwriter and producer Chanel Capra, Priest and martyr (patron saint of Oceania) Saint Peter ChanelPeak Popularity: Chanel is a newer name. It made the U.S. top 1,000 in 1973 and reached a high of 382 in 1991.
Charlotte
Origin: French, English, Old GermanMeaning: Strong and freeAlternative Spellings & Variations: Charo, Char, Charla, Lotta, Carline, Carlotte, Carlyne, Charill, Chariot, Charlaine, Charlet, Charlett, Charletta, Charlette, Charlisa, Charlita, Charlott, Charlotty, Charlyne, Charolet, Charolette, Charalot, Charolotte, Cheryl, CherynFamous Namesakes: English writer Charlotte Bronte, American author Charlotte Armstrong, American model Charlotte McKinney, French architect and designer Charlotte Perriand, American singer Charlotte Ann Martin, American actor Charlotte Rae, American actor Charlotte Ross, American actor Charlotte D’Amboise, Princess of the U.K. Charlotte Elizabeth DianaPeak Popularity: Charlotte is a long-honored traditional name that is very trendy. It has been a top 100 name in the U.S. for more than half of the last century. It has been a top 10 name since 2014 and was number four in 2020. Charlotte is a top 100 name in France.
Chloé
Origin: French, Greek Meaning: Flourishing and blooming Alternative Spellings & Variations: Clo, Cloe, Cloy, Kloe, Chloee, Cloeie, Khloe, Khloey, Chloie, Cloee, Cloie Famous Namesakes: American actor Chloe Bridges, American dancer and model Chloe Elizabeth Lukasiak, American actor Chloe Grace Moretz, American snowboarder Chloe Kim, American actor and fashion designer Chloe Stevens Sevigny, American swimmer Chloe Elizabeth Sutton, American actor Chloe Webb, American author Chloe Gayle Rose Peak Popularity: Chloe is another tremendously popular and trendy name. It made the top 100 from 1998-2008, and was in the top 10 from 2008 to 2011, but dropped back to the top 30 since then. Chloe is also very popular in France where it has been in the top 10 for over 20 years.
Claire
Origin: French, LatinMeaning: Clear and brightly shiningAlternative Spellings & Variations: Clarice, Claireen, Claireta, Clairice, Clairissa, Clairita, Clarabel, Clarabelle, Claresta, Clarette, Claribel, Clarinda, Clarine, Clarisse, Clarrie, Claryrissa, Cayrinda, Klara, Klare, Klaretta, Claryce, Clare, Clairette, Claribelle, Claryce, Cliara, Klaire, Kliara, Klyara, SinclairFamous Namesakes: American actor Claire Catherine Danes, American novelist Claire Cook, American actor Claire Trevor, American TV journalist Claire Shipman, American actor Claire Elizabeth Coffee, American novelist Claire Messud, American actor Claire Titelman, American fashion designer Claire Pettibone, Countess of Ulster Claire Alexandra Windsor, Princess of Luxembourg Claire Margareta Lademacher, Princess of Belgium Claire Louise Coombs, American violinist Claire Hodgkins, American actor Claire Yarlett, American actor Claire Engler, American novelist Claire ZulkeyPeak Popularity: Claire has been a top 500 name in the U.S. for over 100 years. It became a top 100 name in 1998 and reached its highest rank of 40 in 2016.
Clementine
Origin: French, Latin Meaning: Merciful, Mild Alternative Spellings & Variations: Klementynne, Klementine, Klementina, Clemette, Clemenza, Clementyna, Clementyn, Clementya, Clementina, Clemency, Clemencie, Clemence, Clem, Clemencia Famous Namesakes: Clemintine Ogilvy Hozier Churchill, who is married to British Prime Minister Clemintine Ogilvy Hozier Churchill, Princess of Orleans (Marie) Clementine Leopoldine Caroline Clotilde, American actor Clementine Shepherd Ford, American folk artist Clemintine Hunter, American food writer Clementine Paddleford, daughter of model Claudia Schiffer Clementine de Vere Drummond Vaughn, daughter of actor Ethan Hawke Clementine Jane Hawke Peak Popularity: Clementine is an old name that is new again. It was popular in the 1800s and early 1900s, but fell out of favor in the 1950s. After more than 50 years, it popped back up on the top 1,000 list in 2014.
Colette
Origin: French, GreekMeaning: Victorious and triumphant Alternative Spellings & Variations: Kollette, Kolette, Collette, Colletta, Collett, Collete, Collet, Coletta, Coleta, NicoletteFamous Namesakes: American pair skater Colette Appel, American artist Colette Calascione, American singer-songwriter Colette Carr, daughter of actor Dylan McDermott Colette Rose McDermott, daughter of American singer and songwriter Mackelmore Colette Koala Haggerty, daughter of actor Robin Tunney Colette Kathleen MarmetPeak Popularity: Colette was a constant on the top 1,000 list from 1928 until 1986 when it disappeared. It reemerged in 2012 and was number 529 in 2020.
Corinne
Origin: French, Greek Meaning: Maiden Alternative Spellings & Variations: Korinne, Korina, Koreen, Karynna, Karinne, Corynne, Corynn, Coryna Coryn, Corryn, Corrinee, Corrinna, Corrinn, Corrinda, Corrina, Corrienne, Correna, Corren, Correen, Corinn, Corinee, Corinda, Corina, Corin, Corianna, Corenna, Coreen, Carynne, Corrine, Corine, Cori Famous Namesakes: American TV journalist Mary Martha Corinne Morrison Claiborne “Cokie” Roberts, American actress Corinne Bohrer, daughter of actor Jamie Foxx Corinne Foxx-Bishop, actor Corinne Calvet Peak Popularity: Corinne was in the top 500 names for 100 years until 1995, but remains in the top 1,000.
Danielle
Origin: French, Hebrew Meaning: God is the judge Alternative Spellings & Variations: Daniela, Danyelle, Danella, Danelle, Danette, Dani Danyel, Daniyelle, Daniell, Daniele, Danialle, Danal Famous Namesakes: American novelist Danielle Steele, American actor Danielle Andrea Harris, American actor Danielle Nicole Panabaker, American actor Danielle Christine Fishel, American actor (and Elvis Presley’s granddaughter) Danielle Riley Keough, American actor Danielle Brooks, American actor/singer Danielle Brisebois, Actress actor Danielle Nicolet, American actor Danielle Campbell, American model Danielle “Dani” Evans, American teen actor Danielle Parker, American singer Danielle Bradbery Peak Popularity: Danielle was extremely popular and a top 100 name in the U.S. from 1971 until 2004. It reached its highest rank of 14 in 1987.
Denise
Origin: French, GreekMeaning: Devoted to the wine god, DionysiusAlternative Spellings & Variations: Danice, Daniece, Danise, Denece, Deneise, Denese, Deni, Denice, Deniece, Denissa, Denisse, Denize, Denni, Dennie, Dennise, Denny, Denyce, Denyse, DenisiaFamous Namesakes: American actor Denise Lee Richards, American fitness icon Denise Austin, American actor Denise Michelle Crosby, American actor Denise Nickerson, American actor Denise Lor, American novelist Denise VegaPeak Popularity: Denise was a top 100 name from 1950 to 1982. It dropped in popularity from the 1990s until it fell off the top 1,000 list in 2016, but reemerged in 2020 at 872.
Desiree
Origin: French, LatinMeaning: Desired and longed forAlternative Spellings & Variations: Desirae, Desaree, Desarae, Dezaree, Deziree, Desyree, Desire, Desi, Dezi, ReeFamous Namesakes: American singer and voice actor Desirée Goyette, American guitarist Desiree Apolonio Bassett, American runner Desiree Nicole Linden, former White House Social Secretary Desirée Glapion Rogers, American comedienne Lucille Desiree BallPeak Popularity: Desiree made the top 1,000 in 1954 and rose to a rank of 95 in 1983. But, it began to fall drastically after 2010 and was no longer in the top 1,000 as of 2020.
Dominique
Origin: French, LatinMeaning: Belonging to the LordAlternative Spellings & Variations: Domanique, Domanke, Domeineque, Domeneque, Domenica, Domenique, Domineek, Domineke, Dominga, Domini, Dominika, DominiquaFamous Namesakes: American actor Dominique Ariane Swain, American gymnast Dominique Margaux Dawes, American gymnast Dominique Helena Moceanu, American actor Dominique Marie Grund, American actor Dominique Ellen Dunne, Dominique Caine, whose father is actor Michael CainePeak Popularity: Dominique was a top 1,000 name from 1966 to 2011. Its best year was 1985 when it made it to number 83.
Elaine
Origin: French, Greek, EnglishMeaning: Bright, shining lightAlternative Spellings & Variations: Alaina, Alaine, Alayna, Alayne, Allaine, Eilanie, Elaene, Elain, Elaina, Elainea, Elanini, Elainia, Elainna, Elan, Elana, Elane, Elania, Elanie, Elanit, Elanna, Elauna, Elayn, Elayna, Elayne, Elena, Ellaina, Ellaine, Ellane, Ellayne, Laine, Laney, LanieFamous Namesakes: American actress Elaine Hendrix, American director/actress Elaine May, American painter Elaine Hamilton-O’Neal, American actor Elaine Miles, American actor and singer Elaine Stritch, American painter and married to painter Willem de Kooning - Elaine de Kooning, American Olympic beach volleyball player Elaine Youngs, American historian and author Elaine Tyler May, U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine ChaoPeak Popularity: Elaine has been popular for well over 100 years. It was in the top 100 from 1923 to 1958. In the past decade it usually ranks around 700.
Fleur
Origin: FrenchMeaning: A flowerAlternative Spellings & Variations: Fleura, Fleure, Fleurette, Fleurine, Fleury, FloraFamous Namesakes: American journalist and editor Fleur Fenton Cowles, English makeup artist and YouTube personality Fleur de Force, English singer and songwriter Fleur East, Luxembourgian figure skater Fleur MaxwellPeak Popularity: Fleur is a unique name. It is not currently on the top 1,000 list in the U.S., but it may be up and coming.
Francine
Origin: FrenchMeaning: From France or free Alternative Spellings & Variations: Fran, Franceen, Francene, Frances, Francesca, Franchele, Francie, Francille, Francina, Francina, Francis, Frankie, FrannieFamous Namesakes: Brazillian model Francine Amaral, American Singer Francine Hurd Barker, American economist Francine Dee Blau, American actress/director/philanthropist Francine (Fran) Joy Drescher, American pro wrestler Francine Fournier-Meeks, American singer and actress Francine Everette, American actress Francine Locke, American director Francine Maisler, American novelist Francine Rubin Pascal, American singer Francine Reed, American designer Francine Farkas Sears, American actress Francine Tacker, American actress and model Francine York, American photographer Francine Zaslow, American novelist Francine Sandra RiversPeak Popularity: Francine was in the top 500 names for girls from 1932-1972 and fell off the top 1,000 list in 1989. It is now a less common name.
Gabrielle
Origin: French, Hebrew Meaning: God is the hero and strength Alternative Spellings & Variations: Gabbrielle, Gabbryel, Gabby, Gabielle, Gabraelle, Gabreal, Gabreale, Gabrealle, Gabrell, Gabrial, Gabriala, Gabrialla, Gabriana, Gabriele, Gabrielia, Gabriell, Gabriella, Gabriellen, Gabriellia, Gabrieyelle, Gabrila, Gabrilla, Gabrille, Gabrina, Gabryel, Gabryella, Gabryelle, Gaby Famous Namesakes: American actress Gabrielle Monique Union-Wade, American Olympic gymnast Gabrielle Christina Victoria (Gabby) Douglas, former U.S. Congresswoman from Arizona Gabrielle Dee (Gabby) Giffords, American volleyball player Gabrielle Allyse Reece, American actress Gabrielle Anne Carteris, American actress Gabrielle Christian, American novelist Gabrielle Zevin Peak Popularity: Gabrielle is an old name but became popular in the U.S. in the late 1950s. It was a top 100 name from 1990 to 2010. Gabrielle is a top 100 name in France.
Genevieve
Origin: French, German, CelticMeaning: Belonging to the tribe or race of women Alternative Spellings & Variations: Gen, Gena, Genaveeve, Genavieve, Genavive, Gene, Geneera, Geneva, Geneveeve, Genever, Genevie, Genevievre, Genie, Genivieve, Genoveve, Genovia, Genovieve, Genovive, Genvieve, Ginata, Ginett, Ginetta, Ginette, Gineveve, Ginevieve, Ginevive, Ginnetta, Ginnette, Guinevieve, Guinivive, Gwenevieve, Gwenivive, Janeva, Jenevieve, JennavieveFamous Namesakes: Patron Saint of Paris, France Saint Genevieve, American actress Genevieve Nicole Padalecki, American interior designer and TV host Genevieve Gorder, American actress Genevieive Knight Hannelius, American actress Genevieve Tobin, American poet Genevieve Taggard, American actress Genevieve Rose Angelson, Canadian actress Genevieve Sterling Buechner, daughter of NASCAR driver Jimmie Johnson - Genevieve Marie Johnson, daughter of American model and actress Kate Upton and American professional baseball pitcher Justin Verlander - Genevieve Upton (Vivi) VerlanderPeak Popularity: Genevieve is a well-established name that has been around for a long time. It was number 142 in 1900 and a top 100 name from 1909 through 1923. Its popularity decreased a little from the 1950s until 2000, but it is once again rising in the ranks. It was number 169 in 2020.
Giselle
Origin: French, German, TeutonicMeaning: A promise or pledgeAlternative Spellings & Variations: Ghisel, Ghisele, Ghisella, Ghiselle, Gisel, Gisela, Gisele, Giseli, Gisell, Gissela, Gissell, Gissella, Giza, Gizel, Gizella, Gizelle, Gizi, GysellFamous Namesakes: American TV journalist Giselle Fernández, American voice actress Giselle Loren, American singer Beyonce Giselle Knowles-CarterPeak Popularity: Giselle is an old name that hit the U.S. top 1,000 in 1983 and reached a peak in 2007-2009.
Jacqueline
Origin: French, HebrewMeaning: The one who comes after or replacesAlternative Spellings & Variations: Jacalin, Jacalyn, Jackaline, Jackalinne, Jackelyn, Jacketa, Jackette, Jacki, Jackie, Jackie, Jacklin, Jacklyn, Jacklynn, Jacklynne, Jackqualine, Jackqueline, Jacky, Jaclin, Jaclyn, Jacolyn, Jacqualyn, Jacquel, Jacquelean, Jacquelin, Jacquella, Jacquelle, Jacquelyn, Jacquelynn, Jacquelynne, Jacquenette, Jacquette, Jacqui, Jacquine, Jaculine, Jakelyn, Jaquelin, Jaqueline, JaquelynFamous Namesakes: Former first lady of the U.S. Jacqueline Lee “Jackie” Bouvier Kennedy Onassis, American singer and actress Jacqueline Emerson, American Olympic heptathlete Jacqueline “Jackie” Joyner-Kersee, American author Jacqueline Carey, American actress and wife of Adam Sandler Jacqueline Samantha “Jackie” Sandler, American pro wrestler Jacqueline DeLois Moore, American novelist Jacqueline Susann, daughter of journalist Barbara Walters and Lee Guber - Jacqueline Dena GuberPeak Popularity: Jacqueline has been a top 1,000 name for over 100 years. It was number 843 in 1900 and made the top 100 in 1928. It spent most of the last century in the top 100 reaching its highest rank of 37 in 1961 and 1964. It was number 442 in 2020.
Jeanne
Origin: French Meaning: God is gracious Alternative Spellings & Variations: Jean, Jeane, Jeanette, Jeanetta, Jenna, Jeanine, Janine, Jeannie, Jeana, Jane, Joan, Joanne, Joanna Famous Namesakes: French heroine Sainte Jeanne d’Arc (Joan of Arc), American actress Jeanne Elizabeth Crain, American actress Jeanne Marie Tripplehorn, U.S. Senator from New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen, “Dear Abby” advice columnist Jeanne Philips (aka Abigail van Buren), American radio comedienne Jeanne Robertson, TV journalist Jeanne Moos, American sportscaster Jeanne Zelasko, American children’s novelist Jeanne Birdsall, daughter of Korn guitarist Brian Welch - Jeanne Marie Welch, American author Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston Peak Popularity: Jeanne is an old name that has been around for centuries. It was number 384 in 1900 and very popular from the 1920s through the 1970s. After a decline, it dropped off the top 1,000 list in 1991.
Jewel
Origin: French, PortugeseMeaning: Pretty, precious gemstoneAlternative Spellings & Variations: Jeul, Jewell, Jewella, Jewelle, Joule, Juel, Jule, JulesFamous Namesakes: American singer Jewel (Kilcher), American country music singer Jewel Faye “Sammi” Smith, Canadian actress Jewel StaitePeak Popularity: Jewel was a more common name in the early part of the 20th century. It was number 255 in 1900 but began to lose popularity in the 1950s. It fell out of the top 1,000 in 1973 but returned in 1997. It fell out again in 2020.
Jolie
Origin: FrenchMeaning: PrettyAlternative Spellings & Variations: Joely, Jole, Jolee, Joleen, Joleigh, Jolena, Jolene, Joley, Joli, Jolia, Jolien, Jolienne, Jolina, Joline, Jolleen, Jollie, JollyFamous Namesakes:Hungarian-American socialite Jolie Gabor, American singer Jolie Holland, American singer and feminist Jolie Christine Rickman, American country music singer Jolie Edwards, American actress Jolie Jenkins, daughter of music producer Quincy Jones - Jolie Jones Levine, daughter of actor Keenan Ivory Wayans - Jolie Ivory Imani Wayans, American actress and director Angelina Jolie (Voight)Peak Popularity: Jolie was on the top 1,000 name from 1968-1974 before dropping off and reappearing in 2000. Its most popular year was 2008 when it reached 563.
Josephine
Origin: FrenchMeaning: God will add or increaseAlternative Spellings & Variations: Fifine, Fina, Finetta, Finette, Hosefa, Jo, Joetta, Joette, Joey, Jojo, Joline, Josafene, Josana, Josanna, Josanne, Josaphine, Josebe, Josée, Josefa, Josefena, Josefene, Josefine, Josepha, Josephe, Josephene, Josephina, Josephyna, Josetta, Josette, Joseva, Joseve, Josey, Josiane, Josianna, Josianne, Josie, Josine, Josipha, Josy, Jozsa, Jozsi, Jozska, Pepina, Pepita, Sephie, Sephine, Yosebe, Yosepha, YosephinaFamous Namesakes: Empress of France and wife of Napoleon - Josephine de Beauharnias, Queen of Sweden and Norway Josephine of Leuchtenberg, Princess of Belgium Joséphine Caroline Marie Albertine, English feminist and reformer Josephine Elizabeth Butler, American folk singer Josephine Foster, American reformer Josephine Clara Goldmark, American singer/dancer/actress (Freda) Josephine Baker, American journalist Josephine St. Pierre Ruffin, American writer Josephine Preston Peabody, American actress Josephine “Josie” Cohan Niblo, daughter of director James Cameron and actress Linda Hamilton - Josephine Archer Cameron, daughter of actress Jessica Capshaw - Josephine Kate Gavigan, inventor of the dishwasher Josephine Garis Cochran/CochranePeak Popularity: Josephine is a vintage name that never goes out of style. It was number 47 in 1900 and number 86 in 2020. It is also popular in France where it is in the top 100.
Juliet
Origin: French, Latin Meaning: Forever young Alternative Spellings & Variations: Giuletta, Juiana, Jules, Julette, Julia, Julie, Julieta, Juliete, Juliett, Julietta, Juliette, Julyet Famous Namesakes: English actress Juliet Emma Aubrey, American novelist Juliet Grey, American TV journalist Juliet AnnMarie Huddy, American actress/director/producer/ballerina Juliet Rose Landau, American water polo player Juliet Moss, American ballerina/model/actress Juliet Doherty, daughter of actors Emily Watson and Jack Waters - Juliet Waters, daughter of American actress Tiffany Thornton - Juliet Joy Capaci, English actress Juliet Stevenson, American actress Juliet Tablak Peak Popularity: Juliet has been a top 1,000 name for over 100 years (not continuously; fell off in 1930, 1933-34, 1936, 1984, 1986-88, and 1990-95), but has seen a spike in use in the last 10 years. It was most popular in 2017 when it reached 227.
Lorraine
Origin: French, Latin, TeutonicMeaning: From the province of LorraineAlternative Spellings & Variations: Laraine, Larayne, Lareine, Lareyne, Larraine, Lauraine, Laurene, Laurraine, Leraine, Lerayne, Lora, Lorain, Loraine, Lorane, Lorayne, Lorena, Lorette, Lori, Lorianne, Lorine, Lorrain, Lorrayne, Lorrie, Lors, LouraineFamous Namesakes: American actress Lorraine Bracco, American actress and daughter of actor Jack Nicholson - Lorraine Broussard Nicholson, American ice dancer Lorraine McNamara, American playwright Lorraine Vivian Hansberry, American soccer player Lorraine Ming “Lorrie” Fair, American actress Lorraine Toussaint, English actress and model Lorraine Chase, American model Lorraine Collett, American soul singer Marybelle Luraine “Lorraine” Ellison, Canadian pop singer Lorraine Christine Segato, American actress Lillian LorrainePeak Popularity: Lorraine was a top 100 name in the U.S. from 1918 to 1948. After that, it saw a slow decline in popularity until it fell off the top 1,000 list in 1996.
Lourdes
Origin: FrenchMeaning: From the town of Lourdes in FranceAlternative Spellings & Variations: Lordecita, Lordes, Lordez, Lourde, Lourdetta, Lourdez, Lourdi, LurdettaFamous Namesakes: American actress Lourdes Benedicto, American model Lourdes Ann Kananimanu Estores, American radio journalist Lourdes “Lulu” Garcia-Navarro, American actress Maria de Lourdes Viliers “Mia” Farrow, daughter of singer Madonna Lourdes Maria “Lola’ Ciccone LeonPeak Popularity: Lourdes was a top 1,000 name from 1950 to 2001 (except 1996). It was most popular in 1963 and 1966 when it reached a rank of 532.
Louise
Origin: French, German, TeutonicMeaning: Brave warriorAlternative Spellings & Variations: Aloisa, Aluisa, Eloisa, Eloise, Heloise, Lois, Loise, Lou, Louie, Louisa, Louisetta, Louisette, Loulou, Lovisa, Lovise, Loyisa, Lu, Luisa, Luisetta, Luiyiza, Lulie, Lulu, LutzaFamous Namesakes: Louise is a common name among royalty including Queen consort of Frederick William III of Prussia Louise of Mecklenburg-Strelitz (born Luis Auguste Wilhelmine Amalie), Queen consort of Christian IX of Denmark Louise of Hesse-Kassel (born Luise Wilhelmine Friederike Caroline Auguste Julie von Hessen-Kassel), consort of Henry III of France Louise of Lorraine, and many more. Other namesakes include the French composer and pianist Louise Farrenc, French painter Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun, American novelist Louise Fitzhugh, French-American sculptor Louise Bourgeois, Australian model Louise van der Vost, American actress Louise Lasser, American actress (Estelle) Louise Fletcher, English actress Louise Jameson, British reality TV star Louise Thompson, American novelist (Karen) Louise Erdrich, and American musician Aretha Louise Franklin.Peak Popularity: Louise is a traditional name. It was in the top 100 names in the U.S. from 1900 until 1949. Its popularity began to decline in the 1970s, and it dropped out of the top 1,000 in 1987 (coming back in 1990 and 1991). However, it returned to the list in 2016 and may be making a comeback. It has been in the top 10 in France since 2010, and even reached the top spot in 2015.
Lucie
Origin: French, EnglishMeaning: Illuminating and lightAlternative Spellings & Variations: Lucee, Lucette, Lucia, Lucia, Luciana, Lucienne, Lucille, Lucinda, LucyFamous Namesakes: German-British actress Lucie Mannheim, American actress Lucie Désirée Arnaz, Welsh singer Lucie Bethan Jones, American poet Lucie Brock-Broido, French-Canadian actress Lucie Laurier, English singer and songwriter Lucie Joanne Silvas (Silverman)Peak Popularity: Lucie was a top 1,000 name in the U.S. from before 1900 until 1923. It is now a more unique name. However, it may be ready for a resurgence, especially since it is in the top 100 in France. The variant Lucy is quite popular and had a new high rank of 49 in the U.S. in 2020.
Madeleine
Origin: French, GreekMeaning: Strong and great, high towerAlternative Spellings & Variations: Madalaina, Madaleine, Madaline, Madalyn, Madalyne, Maddie, Maddy, Madeiline, Madelaine, Madelayne, Madeleina, Madelena, Madelene, Madelina, Madeline, Madelon, Madelyn, Madilyn, Madlen, Madline, Madlyn, Madoline, Madolyn, Mady, Magdalen, Magdalene, Magdaline, Magdalini, Magdelene, Maidel, Maighdlin, Malina, Marlean, MarlenFamous Namesakes: American actress Madeleine M. Stowe, American politician Madeleine Albright (birthname Marie Jana Korbel), American novelist Madeleine L’Engle, American jazz singer Madeleine Peyroux, English actress (Edith) Madeleine Carroll, American politician Madeleine May Kunin, French actress and director Madeleine Béjart, fashion designer Madeleine Vionnet, English actress Madeleine Mantock, daughter of comedian Stephen Colbert - Madeleine ColbertPeak Popularity: Madeleine is a traditional name. It was number 438 in 1900 but dropped off the top 1,000 list in 1960. It returned in 1986 and reached a rank of 217 in 1998. In France, Madeleine is a top 100 name.
Mallory
Origin: French, Portuguese, EnglishMeaning: Unfortunate and unluckyAlternative Spellings & Variations:Maliri, Mallary, Mallauri, Mallerey, Mallery, Malloree, Malloreigh, Mallorey, Mallorie, Malorey, Malorie, Malory, Malree, Malrie, Mellory, MoloryFamous Namesakes: Miss America 2013 Mallory Hytes Hagan, American tennis player Mallory Burdette, Canadian ice hockey player Mallory Deluce, American writer and television producer Mallory Lewis, American actress Mallory Sandler, Miss Kentucky 2009 Mallory Christina Ervin, American novelist Mallory Reaves, American model and TV personality Mallory Snyder, American soccer player Mallory Diane PughPeak Popularity: Mallory is a last name that has turned into a first name. It made the top 1,000 list in the U.S. in 1983 and reached number 83 in 1986. It dropped out of the top 500 in 2017.
Manon
Origin: FrenchMeaning: Bitter or child of wishesAlternative Spellings & Variations: Manen, Manin, Mannon, MarionFamous Namesakes: Italian lover of Casanova Manon Balletti, Belgian actress Manon Capelle, German fashion model Manon Von Gerkan, Canadian ice hockey player Manon Rhéaume, American comedienne Manon Lucy Mathews, daughter of drummer Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers) - Manon SmithPeak Popularity: Manon is uncommon in the U.S., but it has been a top 10 name in France for the past 20 years.
Margot
Origin: FrenchMeaning: Like a pearl, child of lightAlternative Spellings & Variations: Margaux, Margeaux, Margo, Marguerite, Margaret, Margie, MaggieFamous Namesakes: Sister of diarist Anne Frank - Margot Betti Frank, American actress Margaret Ruth “Margot” Kidder, American radio journalist Margot Susanna Adler, Australian actress and film producer Margot Elise Robbie, daughter of singer Jamie Cullum and model Sophie Dahl - Margot CullumPeak Popularity: Margot ranked consistently in the top 1,000 from 1929 until 1966. After almost 50 years, it returned in 2013 and reached a rank of 234 in 2020. Margot is a top 100 name in France.
Marie
Origin: French, Hebrew Meaning: Star from the sea of bitterness Alternative Spellings & Variations: Maree, Maria, Mariah, Mariane, Mariel, Marielle, Mariet, Marietta, Mariette, Marlene, Marrie, Mary, Marye Famous Namesakes: Queen consort of Louis XVI of France Marie Antoinette (born Maria Antonia Josepha Johanna), American singer (Olive) Marie Osmond, American actress and singer Mary “Marie” Cahill, Canadian actress Marie Prevost, Canadian actress Marie Avgeropolous, Japanese-British-American model Marie Helvin, Japanese organizing consultant and author Marie Kondo Peak Popularity: Marie is an age-old name. It was number 9 in 1900 and a top 100 name until 1958. It has fallen in the ranks a bit in the U.S. and was number 619 in 2020. It remains in the top 100 in France.
Michelle
Origin: French, Hebrew, EnglishMeaning: Who is like or closest to GodAlternative Spellings & Variations: Chelle, M’chelle, M’shell, Machealle, Machele, Machell, Machella, Machelle, Mashelle, Mechelle, Meichelle, Meschell, Meschelle, Meshell, Meshella, Meshelle, Mia, Micaela, Michaela, Michaele, Michaelina, Michaeline, Michaella, Michaelle, Michal, Michel, Michele, Michelene, Michelina, Micheline, Michell, Michella, Michellene, Michellyn, Micquela, Midge, Miguela, Mikaela, Miquela, Mischel, Mischelle, Misha, Mishael, Mishaelle, Mishayla, Mishcelle, Mishell, Mishelle, Mitchele, Mitchelle, Mychelle, Myshell, Myshella, Shelli, ShellyFamous Namesakes: Former First Lady of the U.S. Michelle LaVaughn Robinson Obama, American singer Michelle Jacquet DeSevren Branch, English actress Michelle Suzanne Dockery, American Olympic figure skater Michelle Wingshan Kwan, American actress Michelle Lynn Monaghan, American actress Michelle Marie Pfieffer, American actress (Mayte) Michelle Rodriquez, American actress Michelle Ingrid Williams, American R&B singer (Tenitra) Michelle Williams, American actress Michelle Renee Forbes Guajardo, English actress Michelle Claire Ryan, Canadian model Michelle Kathleen Monkhouse, American actress Michelle Borth, American singer Lauren Michelle Jauregui MorgadoPeak Popularity: Michelle made the top 1,000 list in 1938. It was a top 100 name from 1954 to 2008 and reached number 2 in 1968, 1969, 1971, and 1972.
Monique
Origin: French, LatinMeaning: A wise counselor and advisorAlternative Spellings & Variations: Mo, Mona, Moneek, Moneeque, Moni, Monica, Monicke, MoniqeFamous Namesakes: American actress/comedienne Mo’Nique (born Monique Angela Hicks), Belgian-American actress and singer Monique Jacobson van Vooren, American actress (Adrienne) Monique Coleman, American actress and model Monique Alexander, American Olympic runner Monique Hennagan, American Olympic runner Monique Henderson, Canadian actress Monique Mercure, Canadian actress and singer Monique Leyrac, fashion designer Monique LhuillierPeak Popularity: Monique became a top 1,000 name in the U.S. in 1955. It reached its highest position of 93 in 1980 before declining in popularity and dropping off the list in 2008.
Nicolette
Origin: French, Greek Meaning: A victory of the people Alternative Spellings & Variations:Colette, Nicholette, Nicki, Nicole, Nicolett, Nicoletta, Nicollett, Nicollette, Nikkolette, Nikolet, Nikolett, Nikolette Famous Namesakes: American actress Nicolette Savalas Sheridan, American country music singer Nicolette Larson, Canadian-American actress Nicolette Goulet, mother of actress Lindsay Lohan - Dina Lohan (Donata Melina Nicolette Sullivan), American singer Halsey (Ashley Nicolette Frangipane) Peak Popularity: Nicolette made a brief appearance on the top 1,000 list in the early 1950s. Then, it disappeared until 1979. Its most popular year was 1993 when it reached 327, but it fell off the list once again in 2007.
Noel
Origin: French, LatinMeaning: Born on Christmas Day or at ChristmastimeAlternative Spellings & Variations:Noël, Noela, Noelani, Noele, Noeleen, Noelene, Noeline, Noell, Noella, Noelle, Nole, Noli, Nollaig, Novelo, Nowel, Nowell, NowelleFamous Namesakes: English author Mary Noel Streatfeild, Canadian actress Jillian Noel Hennessy, reality tv actress Kimberly Noel Kardashian West, American actress and comedian Noël Kristi Wells, daughter of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West - Chicago Noel WestPeak Popularity: Noel teetered on the edge of the top 1,000 list for girls in the U.S. from 1937 to 1955 and from 1965-1998. It reached its highest position of 587 in 1987.
Odette
Origin: French, GermanMeaning: Praise God, poem, wealthyAlternative Spellings & Variations: Oddete, Oddetta, Odelia, Odelle, Odessa, Odet, Odete, OdettaFamous Namesakes: American actress Odette Juliette Annable, French actress Odette Joyeaux, French actress Odette Laure, daughter of American actor Mark Ruffalo - Odette RufalloPeak Popularity: Odette is a unique name. In the last 118 years, it made the top 1,000 list once in 1905 when it ranked number 843.
Patrice
Origin: French, English, LatinMeaning: Noble, born into nobilityAlternative Spellings & Variations: Paddy, Pat, Patie, Patrease, Patrece, Patreece, Patric, Patricia, Patrickk, Patricus, Patriece, Patrik, Patrique, Patrishia, Patrisse, Patrizius, Patryce, Patsie, Patsy, Patte, Pattek, Patten, Patti, Patton, Pattrice, Pattrick, Patty, Trish, TrishaFamous Namesakes: American actress Patrice Wymore, American musician Patrice Rushen, American singer Patrice HollowayPeak Popularity: Patrice was a top 1,000 name from 1945 to 1995. It was most popular in 1958 with a rank of 211.
Pauline
Origin: French, GermanMeaning: Petite and smallAlternative Spellings & Variations: Paula, Pauleen, Paulene, Paulette, Paulie, Paulina, Paulise, Paulyne, Pawline, PollineFamous Namesakes: AAmerican singer and screenwriter Pauline Chalamet, American actress Pauline Cushman, American tennis player Pauline Betz, American actress Pauline Frederick (born Pauline Beatrice Libbey), American novelist and playwright Pauline Hopkins, American film critic Pauline Kael, French musician Pauline Viardot, Irish actress and author Pauline McLynn, English actress Pauline Collins, English actress Pauline Perpetua Quirke, daughter of singer Wynonna Judd and Arch Kelley III - Grace Pauline Kelley, daughter of actor Vin Diesel - Pauline SinclairPeak Popularity: Pauline is a classic name. It was number 71 in 1900 and a top 100 name until 1939. It slowly decreased in popularity and eventually dropped out of the top 1,000 in 1997.
Renée
Origin: FrenchMeaning: Born again or rebornAlternative Spellings & Variations: Ranae, Ranay, Ranee, Ren, Renae, Renai, Renat, Renata, Renato, Renatus, Renault, Renay, Rene, Renea, Renette, Renie, Renita, Renna, Renne, Rennell, Rennie, Renny, Rhenee, Rhennae, RhennayFamous Namesakes: American actress Renee Kathleen Zellweger, American opera singer Renee Fleming, Australian singer Renee Rebecca Geyer, American basketball player Renee Danielle Montgomery, American actress (Rebecca) Renee Olstead, daughter of Rod Stewart - Renee Stewart, American actress Renee Felice Smith, American actress Renee Elise Goldsberry, American actress (Evelyn) Renee O’ConnorPeak Popularity: Renee ranked 919 in 1905. It increased in popularity to become a top 100 name from 1959 to 1979. In the last 20 years, it has seen a sharp decline in use and fell off the top 1,000 list in 2014, making a comeback at number 964 in 2017 before falling off again.
Simone
Origin: French, HebrewMeaning: Hearkening, “she heard"Alternative Spellings & Variations: Cymone, Samone, Shimona, Shimonah, Simeona, Simina, Siminie, Simmi, Simmie, Simmona, Simmone, Simmonne, Simoane, Simon, Simona, Simonette, Simonia, Simonina, Simonna, Simonne, Somone, Symona, SymoneFamous Namesakes: American gymnast Simone Arianne Biles, American novelist Simone Elkeles, Canadian singer Simone Denny, American swimmer Simone Manuel, ocean explorer Simone Melchior Cousteau, American pianist Simone Dinnerstein, daughter of TV host Geraldo Rivera - Simone Rivera Cruickshank, daughter of actor and wrestler Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson - Simone Alexandra Johnson, daughter of comedian and actor Chris Rock - Lola Simone Rock, daughter of model Chrissy Teigen and singer John Legend -Luna Simone StephensPeak Popularity: Simone was a top 1,000 name from 1937 through 1941 and from 1960 on. It reached a rank of 311 in 1988.
Suzette
Origin: French, Hebrew Meaning: Pretty and graceful like a lily Alternative Spellings & Variations: Sue, Susee, Susene, Susette, Susi, Susie, Susy, Suzan, Suzannah, Suzanne, Suze, Suzee, Suzie, Suzy Famous Namesakes: American writer Suzette Haden Elgin, American musician Suzette “Suzy” Quintanilla, American ballerina Suzette Logue, American actress Jamia Suzette “Jayma” Mays Peak Popularity: Suzette was a top 1,000 name in 1943 and then from 1946 to 1978. It was most popular in the 1960s and reached number 341 in 1967.
Violette
Origin: French, EnglishMeaning: A purple-blue flowerAlternative Spellings & Variations: Vi, Viola, Violaine, Violanta, Violanthe, Viole, Violeine, Violene, Violet, Violeta, Violete, Violette, Violia, Violin, Violletta, Viollette, Violyne, Vyolet, VyolettaFamous Namesakes: French novelist Violette Leduc, Canadian novelist Violette Malan, French-British WWII special agent Violette Reine Elizabeth Szabo, daughter of singer Tom Petty- Kimberly Violette Petty (a.k.a. AnnaKim Violette)Peak Popularity: Violette is a vintage name and was in the top 1,000 names from 1900-1927 (except 1925).
Yvonne
Origin: FrenchMeaning: Yew woodAlternative Spellings & Variations: Evon, Evonne, Vonne, Vonnie, Vonny, Yavanda, Yavanna, Yavanne, Yavonda, Yavonna, Yavonne, Yvanna, Yveline, Yvon, Yvone, Yvonnah, Yvonnia, Yvonnie, YvonnyFamous Namesakes: Actress Yvonne DeCarlo, actress Yvonne StrahovskiPeak Popularity: Yvonne has been a top 1,000 name for over a century. It was number 358 in 1900 and reached a rank of 77 in 1937. It began a sharp decline in use in the 1990s and dropped out of the top 1,000 in 2002.
Zoe
Origin: French, Greek Meaning: Vibrant and full of life Alternative Spellings & Variations: Zoa, Zoë, Zoee, Zoelie, Zoeline, Zoelle, Zoey, Zoia, Zoie, Zooey, Zowey, Zoya, Zoyechka, Zoyenka Famous Namesakes: American actress Zoë Yadira Saldaña Nazario, American actress and musician (daughter of actress Lisa Bonet and singer Lenny Kravitz) Zoë Isabella Kravitz, American actress Zoe Swicord Kazan, American-British actress Zoë Wanamaker, English journalist and novelist Zoë Kate Hinde Heller, American actress and singer Zoe Lister-Jones, American model Zoe Wiseman, English actress Zoe Tapper, American painter and novelist Zoe Yin, American photographer Zoe Strauss, American musician/model/actress Zoë Tamerlis Lund, American playwright/poet/author Zoë Byrd Akins, American actress Zoe Levin, daughter of American actor Dennis Quaid - Zoe Grace Quaid, daughter of actress Rosanna Arquette and John Sidel - Zoe Bleu Sidel Peak Popularity: Zoe is a trendy name. It’s classic but saw a big boom in the 1990s. It’s been in the top 100 since 2000 and reached number 30 in 2012.
Popular French Baby Names for Boys
Here are some popular and unique French baby names for boys along with their meanings, origins, and other interesting information.
Antoine
Origin: French, LatinMeaning: Praiseworthy and pricelessAlternative Spellings & Variations: Anoino, Antawn, Anthony, Antjuan, Antjwon, Antoan, Anton, Antone, Antonio, Antonioh, Antony, Antonyo, Antuan, Antuwain, Antwain, Antwaine, Antwan, Antwane, Antwann, Antwanne, Antwaun, Antwon, Antwone, AntwonneFamous Namesakes: American film director Antoine Fuqua, American football player Antoine Brandon Cason, American football player Antoine Duane Winfield, American football player Antoine Caldwell, American football player Antoine Akeem Bethea, American basketball player Antoine Devon Walker, French composer Marc-Antoine Charpentier, American pianist and singer-songwriter Antoine “Fats” Domino Jr., French nobleman and chemist Antoine LavoisierPeak Popularity: Antoine was on the top 1,000 list for boys in the early 1900s but dropped off in 1912. It popped back up in 1957 and was most popular in 1985 when it hit 262. It dropped off the list again in 2014.
Armand
Origin: French, German, TeutonicMeaning: An army soldierAlternative Spellings & Variations: Arman, Armande, Armando, Armani, Armanie, Armano, Arme, Armon, Armond, Armonde, Armondo, Ormand, OrmondFamous Namesakes: American actor Armand “Armie” Douglas Hammer, American actor Armande Anthony Assante, French journalist Armand Carrel, French poet Armand Robin, French painter Armand DoréPeak Popularity: Armand is an old name. It was number 625 in the U.S. in 1900 and remained a top 1,000 name until 1971. It then began to bounce on and off the list until 1998 when it fell off for good. Armand ranks in the top 200 in France.
Arthur
Origin: French, Celtic Meaning: Noble one; bear Alternative Spellings & Variations: Are, Art, Artair, Arte, Artek, Arther, Arthor, Artie, Artor, Artur, Arturo, Artus, Arty, Aurther, Aurthur, Authur Famous Namesakes: Scottish physician and novelist Sir Arthur Ignatius Conan Doyle, American tennis player Arthur Robert Ashe Jr., American playwright Arthur Asher Miller, Canadian-American TV presenter Arthur Gordon “Art” Linkletter, American singer Arthur “Art” Ira Garfunkel, English actor Arthur Wontner, Prince of Wales Arthur Tudor, American musician and comic book writer Gerard Arthur Way, son of actress Selma Blair - Arthur Saint Bleick, son of Pippa Middleton and James Matthews - Arthur Michael William Matthews Peak Popularity: Arthur is a traditional name that is centuries old. It was number 15 in the U.S. in 1900 and a staple in the top 100 until 1970. Arthur is a favorite in France and was in the top 10 in 2017.
Brice
Origin: French, English, Scottish Meaning: Speckled; son of a nobleman Alternative Spellings & Variations: Bri, Bricio, Bricius, Bryce, Brychan, Brye Famous Namesakes: American actor James Brice Beckham, American football player Brice Butler, French politician Brice Hortefeux, American basketball player (Jonathan) Brice Johnson, American artist Brice Marden, American football player Brice Antwion McCain, American singer (William) Brice Long Peak Popularity: Brice was consistent top 1,000 name from 1959 to 2015, but has now fallen from the list. It was most popular in 1988 when it reached a rank of 459. The variant Bryce is more popular, ranking in the top 100 from 1998–2002. It remained in the top 200 until 2018, but fell and ranked 234 in 2020.
Charles
Origin: French, German, TeutonicMeaning: Strong and manly; free man; farmerAlternative Spellings & Variations: Carl, Carroll, Chad, Char, Charlemagne, Charleston, Charley, Charlie, Charlot, Charls, Charlton,, Charly, Chas, Chay, Chaz, Chazz, Chick, Chip, ChuckFamous Namesakes: Holy Roman Emperor Charles I “the Great” (aka Charlemagne), Holy Roman Emperors Charles II - VI, Kings of France Charles II-IX, Kings of Sweden Charles I-XIII, American cartoonist Charles Samuel “Chas” Addams, American basketball player Charles Wade Barkley, American musician Charles Edward Anderson “Chuck” Berry, American novelist (Henry) Charles Bukowski, English actor Sir Charles Spencer “Charlie” Chaplin, son of actor Russell Crowe - Charles Spencer “Charlie” Crowe, English naturalist Charles Robert Darwin, American actor and comedian Charles Peckham “Charlie” Day, English novelist Charles John Huffam Dickens, American actor Charles Grodin, American actor Charles Condrad “Chad” Lowe, American cartoonist Charles Monroe “Sparky” SchulzPeak Popularity: Charles is a popular, classic, age-old name. It has been in the top 100 in the U.S. for well over 100 years. It was number 5 in 1900 and number 46 in 2020.
Claude
Origin: French, English, LatinMeaning: Lame, crippled, and limpingAlternative Spellings & Variations: Cladio, Claud, Claudian, Claudicio, Claudie, Claudien, Claudio, Claudios, Claudiu, Claudius, Clavio, Klaud, Klaude, Klaudiusz, Klavdii, KolosFamous Namesakes: French physicist and winner of the Nobel prize in physics Claude Cohen-Tannoudji, French composer (Achille) Claude Debussy, American singer and songwriter Claude Kelly, Jamaican-American novelist Festus Claudius “Claude” McKay, French impressionist painter (Oscar)-Claude Monet, son of painter Pablo Picasso - Claude Ruiz Picasso, English actor (William) Claude Rains, French novelist and winner of the Nobel prize in literature Claude SimonPeak Popularity: Claude was very popular in the first half of the 20th century. It was a top 200 name until 1953, but it slowly decreased in use over the next 40 years until it dropped out of the top 1,000 in 1994.
Denis
Origin: French, GreekMeaning: Devoted to the wine god, DionysiusAlternative Spellings & Variations: Deion, Den, Denes, Denies, Denijs, Deniss, Dennes, Dennet, Denney, Denni, Dennie, Dennies, Dennis, Dennison, Denny, Dennys, Denys, Dionisio, DionysiusFamous Namesakes: Philosopher Denis Diderot, Canadian actor Denis Forest, American writer Denis Hale Johnson, American actor Denis Colin Leary, American actor Denis Patrick Seamus O’Hare, French-Canadian film director and writer Denis VilleneuvePeak Popularity: Denis is a very old name. It was most popular in the U.S. in 1952 when it ranked 277. It fell out of the top 1,000 in 1992 and is now less common.
François
Origin: FrenchMeaning: A man from France or a free manAlternative Spellings & Variations: Fran, Francis, Francisco, Frank, Frankie, Frans, Fransawawa, FrenchFamous Namesakes: Former Prime Minister of France François Fillon, director François TruffautPeak Popularity: François is unique in the United States, but it is more common in France.
Frederic
Origin: FrenchMeaning: A peaceful rulerAlternative Spellings & Variations: Fred, Freddy, Frederick, Frederik, Fredric, Fredrich, Fredrick, RicFamous Namesakes: American landscape painter Frederic Edwin, French film director Frédéric Forester, American actor Frederic Fenimore Forrest, American screenwriter Frederic Lebow, English jurist and historian Frederic William Maitland, American actor Frederic March, American painter Frederic Sackrider Remington, American actor Steven Frederic Seagal, American novelist Frederic TutenPeak Popularity: Frederic was in the top 1,000 in the U.S. until 1979. Its best year was 1915 when it reached the rank of 343.
Gabriel
Origin: French, HebrewMeaning: God is the strength and hero Alternative Spellings & Variations: Gab, Gabbi, Gabbie, Gabby, Gabe, Gabel, Gabell, Gabelle, Gabi, Gabian, Gabie, Gabiel, Gabin, Gabirel, Gabko, Gabo, Gábor, Gabreal, Gabrial, Gabriele, Gabrielli, Gabriello, Gabrielo, Gabryel, Gaby, GabysFamous Namesakes: American actor (Louis) Gabriel Basso III, American NFL player Gabriel Andrew “Gabe” Carimi, Son of singer Joan Baex and David Harris - Gabriel Harris, Canadian actor, Gabriel Hogan, American comedian Gabrial Jesus Inglesias, American comedian Gabriel “Gabe” Weston Kaplan, American baseball player Gabriel Stefan “Gabe” Kapler, American actor and film producer Gabriel Swann Macht, American singer Gabriel Eduardo “Gabe” SaportaPeak Popularity: Gabriel has been around for thousands of years, and it was in the top 25 from 2008–2016. It is a top 10 name in France.
Gaston
Origin: FrenchMeaning: From Gascony in southwest France; the foreigner, the guestAlternative Spellings & Variations: Gascone, Gastan, Gastawn, Gasten, Gastone, Gastowyn, GastunFamous Namesakes: French philosopher Gaston Bachelard, French-American racing driver and automaker Gaston Chevrolet, American NFL football player Gaston Alfred Green III, son of singer Sophie B. Hawkins - Dashiell Gaston Hawkins, French novelist Gaston Louis Alfred Leroux, son of American actress Jaclyn Smith - Gaston Anthony RichmondPeak Popularity: Gaston is an old name. In 1900, it ranked number 635 in the US, and it was a top 1,000 name until 1936 (except 1930, 1932, and 1933). It is uncommon today.
Gilbert
Origin: French, GermanMeaning: Pledge, promiseAlternative Spellings & Variations: Bert, Bertie, Gibbon, Gibby, Gil, Gilber, Gilbert, Gilberto, Gilburt, Gilibeirt, Gill, Gilleabart, Gilly, Giselbert, GuilbertFamous Namesakes: American basketball player Gilbert Jay Arenas Jr., English writer Gilbert Keith Chesterton, American actor/comedian Gilbert Gottfried, Mexican-born American actor Gilbert Roland, American novelist and poet Gilbert Sorrentino, American painter Gilbert Charles Stuart (born Stewart), English naturalist Gilbert White FRSSinger Gilbert Bécaud, comedian Gilbert GottfriedPeak Popularity: Gilbert is a classic boy name. It was number 146 in 1900 and a top 200 name until 1969. It has since fallen in the ranks and dropped out of the top 1,000 in 2017.
Guy
Origin: FrenchMeaning: Guide, leaderAlternative Spellings & Variations: Gai, Gui, Guido, Guye, Guyon, Gye, Veit, VitusFamous Namesakes: Scottish bassist for the musical group Coldplay Guy Rupert Berryman, Canadian actor Guy Fauchon, American celebrity chef and restaurateur Guy Ramsay Fieri, American hockey goalie Guy Andre Herbert, American actor Guy Madison, French writer Henri René Albert Guy de Maupassant, American actor Guy Perry, English film director Guy RitchiePeak Popularity: Guy was very popular in the early 1900s. It ranked 99 in 1900 and stayed in the top 200 until 1968. It decreased in popularity over the last 40 years and fell off the top 1,000 list in 2005 and then again in 2007 and has not reappeared.
Hugo
Origin: French, GermanMeaning: IntelligHew, Hewgo, Hewy, Hue, Huey, Hugh, Hughie, Hughs, Ugecria, Ugo, Ugolino, Ugoneence of mind and spirit Alternative Spellings & Variations: Hugh, Ugo, Hewgo, Hughes, Hue, Hew, Hughie, Huey, HewyFamous Namesakes: Late president of Venezuela Hugo Rafael Chávez Frías, Australian actor Hugo Wallace Weaving, Austrian composer Hugo Philipp Jacob WolfPeak Popularity: Hugo is a vintage name that has been in the top 1,000 for well over a century, and the top 500 since 1979. Hugo is trendy in France and has been a top 10 name since 1998.
Jacques
Origin: FrenchMeaning: The one that comes after or replaces Alternative Spellings & Variations: Jack, Jacob, Jacot, Jacquard, Jacque, Jake, Jaq, Jaque, Jaques, JockFamous Namesakes: American NFL football player Jacques E. Cesaire, 22nd President of France Jacques René Chirac, French oceanographer Jacques-Yves Cousteau, German-American psychologist and biologist Jacques Loeb, American NFL football player Jacques Rashaud McClendon, American NFL football player Jacques Dimitri Reeves, Swiss philosopher Jean-Jacques RousseauPeak Popularity: Jacques had its most popular year in the U.S. in 1969 when it reached number 602. It is traditionally a more popular name in France.
Jean
Origin: French, Celtic, Hebrew Meaning: God is gracious Alternative Spellings & Variations: Gene, Jéan, Jeane, Jeann, Jeanne, Jeannot, Jeano, Jeanot, Jeanty, Jene, Jhon, John Famous Namesakes: French racing driver Giovanni ‘Jean” Alesi, Canadian actor Jean-Luc Bilodeau, French actor and comedian Jean Edmond Duajardin, American baseball player Jean Joseph Octave Dubuc, French fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier, French novelist and poet Jean Genet, Canadian-American novelist and poet Jean-Louis “Jack” Lebris de Kerouac, French physicist and winner of the Nobel prize Jean Baptiste Perrin, Franco-Swiss philosopher Jean-Jacques Rosseau, French philosopher and novelist Jean-Paul Charles Aymard Satre, American radio personality and memoirist Jean Parker Shepherd Jr., French economist and winner of the Nobel prize Jean Tirole, American poet and novelist Jean Toomer, Belgian actor Jean-Claude Van Damme (a.k.a. Jean-Claude Camille François van Varenberg), French racing driver Jean-Éric Vergne Peak Popularity: Jean is a classic boy name. It was number 499 in 1900 and remained in the top 1,000 until 2011. It is now a less common name for boys in the US, but in the top 100 in France.
Jules
Origin: French, GreekMeaning: Forever young Alternative Spellings & Variations: Jewel, Jewels, Joles, Joules, Jule, Julian, Julien, Julieus, Julio, JuliusFamous Namesakes: French racecar driver Jules Lucien André Bianchi, Belgian microbiologist and winner of the Nobel Prize Jules Jean Baptiste Vincent Bordet, American cartoonist Jules Ralph Feiffer, French composer Jules Émile Frédéric Massenet, American painter Jules Olitski, French author Jules Gabriel VernePeak Popularity: Jules was most popular in the U.S. in 1911 when it ranked 422. It is now a unique name for boys in the U.S. However, Jules is extremely popular in France where it has been in the top 10 names since 2008.
Leo
Origin: French, English, Latin, Greek Meaning: Bold like a lion Alternative Spellings & Variations: Leao, Lee, Leib, Leibel, Leio, Léo, Leoh, Leon, Leonardo, Leoncio, Leond, Leonn, Leontios, Lev, Lio, Lion, Liutas, Lyo, Lyon Famous Namesakes: French composer Leo Arnaud, son of actors Kim Raver and Manuel Boyer - Leo Kipling Boyer, English actor Leo Gratten Carroll, son of actor Javier Bardem and actress Penelope Cruz- Leonardo Encinas Cruz, American actor and producer Leonardo Wilhelm DiCaprio, son of NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon - Leo Benjamin Gordon, American actor and martial artist Leo Howard, German painter Leo Freiherr von König, American broadcaster and author Leo Gordon Laporte, son of actress and model Jaime King - Leo Thames Newman, Russian novelist Lev “Leo” Nikolayevich Tolstoy Peak Popularity: Leo is a time-honored name for boys. It was number 46 in 1900, and it’s just as trendy today. In 2010, it ranked 50 in the U.S. and has been in the top 10 in France since 2012.
Louis
Origin: French, German, Teutonic Meaning: Brave warrior Alternative Spellings & Variations: Aloysius, Lash, Lashi, Lasho, Lew, Lewes, Lewis, Lodovico, Lothar, Lou, Louie, Louies, Lucho, Lude, Ludek, Ludis, Ludko, Ludovic, Ludovicus, Ludvig, Ludvik, Ludwik, Lue, Lughaidh, Lui, Luie, Luigi, Luis, Luisito, Luiz, Luki, Lutek Famous Namesakes: King of France Louis I-XV, King of France Louis XVI (Louis-Auguste), Dauphin (of King) of France Louis XVII (Louis-Charles), King of France Louis XVII (Louis Stanslas Xavier), King of France, Louis-Phillipe, American jazz trumpeter and singer Louis Daniel Armstrong, American baseball player Louis “Lou” Boudreau, French inventor Louis Braille, American baseball player Louis Clark “Lou” Brock, son of American actress Sandra Bullock - Louis Bardo Bullock, American comedian, Louis C.K. (born Louis Szekely), American actor and comedian Lou Costello (birth name Louis Francis Cristillo) , American TV personality Louis Carl “Lou” Dobbs, American actor and professional bodybuilder Louis Jude “Lou” Ferrigno, son of American actor Mel Gibson - Louis Gibson, American actor Louis Cameron Gossett Jr. , German actor Louis Hoffman, American musician Louis Thomas Jordan, American novelist Louis Dearborn L’Amour, American football player Louis Morris Murphy Jr., French chemist Louis Pasteur, American musician and actor Louis Leo Prima, American singer Louis Allen “Lou” Rawls, American financial journalist and TV commentator Louis Richard “Lou” Rukeyser , American novelist Louis Sachar, English broadcaster and author Louis Sebastian Theroux, English singer Louis William Tomlinson, American football player Louis Nicholas Vasquez, French fashion designer Louis Vuitton Peak Popularity: Louis is a centuries-old name that has withstood the test of time. It was number 26 in 1900 and number 260 in 2020. It is currently a favorite in France where it has been a top 10 name since 2006.
Luc
Origin: French Meaning: The light Alternative Spellings & Variations: Luca, Lucas, Lucca, Luces, Lucian, Lukas, Luke Famous Namesakes: French film director Luc Paul Maurice Besson, Canadian ice hockey player Joseph Luc Bourdon, French composer Luc Ferrari, French film director and screenwriter Luc Jacquet, French virologist Luc Antoine Montagnier, Canadian ice hockey player Luc Jean-Marie Robitaille Peak Popularity: Luc is an uncommon name in the United States, but it did make the top 1,000 in 2002 with a rank of 933. Luc is a much more popular name in France.
Marc
Origin: French, Latin Meaning: Warlike Alternative Spellings & Variations: Marcas, Marcellin, Marcellino, Marcello, Marco, Marcus, Marecek, Marek, Mares, Mark. Markell, Markey, Markie, Markku, Marko, Marku, Markus, Marky, Marousek, Marq, Marque, Marquus, Marx Famous Namesakes: Mexico-born Amerian singer and television producer Marc Anthony (born Marco Antonio Muñiz), American actor Marcus Paul “Marc” Blucas, American football player Marc Robert Bulger, American singer and songwriter Marc Craig Cohn, American actor Marc Evan Jackson, American fashion designer Marc Jacobs, Canadian-born American actor Marc Singer, American TV presenter Marc Summers, American actor Marc Vann, English actor Marc Warren Peak Popularity: Marc has been popular in the U.S. since the 1930s. It reached its highest rank of 60 in 1970 but has been declining since, but hanging on in the top 1,000.
Marcel
Origin: FrenchMeaning: A little warrior Alternative Spellings & Variations: Marceau, Marceaux, Marceli, Marcelin, Marcelino, Marcell, Marcelle, Marcellin, Marcello, Marcellus, Marcelo, Marcely, Marciel, MarselFamous Namesakes: Canadian model Marcel Castenmiller, American singer Marcel Francois Chagnon, French artist (Henri-Robert)-Marcel Duchamp, American football player Marcel Xavier Jones, French novelist (Valentin Louis Georges Eugène) Marcel Proust, American chef Marcel Vigneron, son of rapper Dr. Dre and singer Michel’le - Marcel YoungPeak Popularity: Marcel has been a top 1,000 name for over 100 years. Its most popular year in the United States was 1925 when it hit number 500.
Martin
Origin: French, Latin, SpanishMeaning: WarlikeAlternative Spellings & Variations: Maarten, Mairtan, Mairtin, Mardy, Mart, Martan, Marteen, Marten, Martene, Marti, Martie, Martine, Martinho, Martino, Martinus, Marto, Marton, Marty, TinoFamous Namesakes: 8th U.S. president Martin Van Buren, English actor and film director (Alexander) Martin Clunes, English actor Martin John Christopher Freeman, American civil rights campaigner Martin Luther King Jr., Protestant German reformer Martin Luther, American physicist and Nobel prize winner Martin Lewis Perl, American film director Martin Charles Scorsese, Canadian actor Martin Hayter Short, American actor Martin StarrPeak Popularity: Martin is a traditional name. It was number 70 in 1900 and was in the top 100 until 1971. Martin is a top 100 name in France.
Maurice
Origin: French, Latin, EnglishMeaning: Having dark skinAlternative Spellings & Variations: Maricio, Marin, Maritz, Maruo, Maurecio, Maureese, Maurencio, Mauri, Mauricio, Maurids, Mauridsje, Mauriece, Maurin, Maurise, Maurisio, Maurisse, Mauritio, Maurits, Mauritz, Maurizio, Mauro, Maury, Maurycy, Mavriki, Meurig, Mo, Moreese, Morice, Moricz, Moris, Morrice, Morris, Morry, Mortiz, Morys, Moss, Muiris, MuriceFamous Namesakes: American actor Maurice Benard, American football player (Gregory) Maurice Fountain, English singer Maurice Ernest Gibb, American football player Sparrow Maurice “Mo” Hurt Jr., American football player Maurice Jones-Drew, French composer (Joseph)-Maurice Ravel, American writer Maurice Bernard Sendak, French artist Maurice Quentin de La TourPeak Popularity: Maurice is a name that goes back centuries. In the last 120 years, it was most popular in 1914 with a rank of 94. It is still on the top 1,000 list, but it has lost some steam in the last 20 years.
Nicolas
Origin: French, GreekMeaning: A victory of the peopleAlternative Spellings & Variations: Nic, Nichol, Nicholas, Nicholaus, Nick, Nico, Nicola, Nicolas, Nicolus, Niko, NikolasFamous Namesakes: American actor Nicolas Cage (born Nicolas Kim Coppola), son of actors Brigitte Bardot and Jacques Charrier - Nicolas-Jaques Charrier, French painter Nicolas PoussinPeak Popularity: Nicolas is another name that has been around for centuries, and it’s been in the top 1,000 in the U.S. for over 100 years. Its best year was 1998 when it ranked 132.
Noel
Origin: French, LatinMeaning: Born on Christmas Day or at ChristmastimeAlternative Spellings & Variations: Nata, Natal, Natale, Noél, Noël, Noele, Noell, Nole, Noli, Nollaig, Novelo, Nowel, Nowell, NowelleFamous Namesakes: British novelist and screenwriter Douglas Noel Adams, English actor and director Noel Anthony Clarke, English Playwright and musician Noël Coward, English TV presenter Noel Ernest Edmonds, Canadian actor Noel Roeim Fisher, American singer Noel Gallagher, American football player Noel Michael LaMontagnePeak Popularity: Noel has been a top 500 name for boys for most of the last century in the United States. It was most popular in 1938 with a rank of 267.
Orville
Origin: French, EnglishMeaning: From the gold town Alternative Spellings & Variations: Aurville, Orv, Orval, Orvalle, Orvele, Orvelle, Orvil, OrvylleFamous Namesakes: Canadian poet and author Orville Lloyd Douglas, American actor and comedian Orville Willis “Will” Forte IV, American guitarist Orville Johnson, American golfer Orville James Moody, American popcorn magnate Orville Clarence Redenbacher, American writer and activist Orville Hickock Schell III, American aviator Orville WrightPeak Popularity: Orville was most popular in 1913 with a rank of 120. It was a top 1,000 name in the U.S. until the 1970s, but it has not returned to the top 1,000 since 1975.
Pascal
Origin: French, Latin, EnglishMeaning: Born at Eastertime Alternative Spellings & Variations: Pace, Pacey, Pascale, Pascalle, Paschal, Paschalis, Pascoal, Pascoe, Pascow, Pascual, Pascuall, Pascul, Pasquale, Pasquali, PasquallFamous Namesakes: Canadian hockey player Pascal Dupuis, French singer and songwriter Pascal Obispo, German racing driver Pascal WehrleinPeak Popularity: Pascal is an uncommon name in the United States.
Paul
Origin: French, Latin Meaning: Little one or small Alternative Spellings & Variations: Paley, Pall, Paolo, Pauley, Pauli, Paulie, Paulo, Paulus, Pauly, Pawl, Pol Famous Namesakes: American co-founder of Microsoft Paul Gardner Allen, Canadian singer Paul Albert Anka, English actor Paul Bettany, English actor Paul Blackthorne, American composer and novelist Paul Frederic Bowles, American football player Paul Martin Butcher, Sr., American actor and singer Paul Matthew Hawke Butcher, Jr., German poet Paul Celan, French artist Paul Cézanne, French poet Paul Claudel, English-Canadian voice actor Paul Dobson, French poet Paul Éluard,, French artist Paul Gauguin, American actor Paul Edward Valentine Giamatti, American bassist Paul Gray, American actor Paul Vincent Guilfoyle, Irish Musician Paul David “Bono” Hewson, English musician (James) Paul McCartney, American actor Paul Leonard Newman, Canadian ice dancer Paul Poirier, American comedian and actor Paul Reiser, American revolutionary and, silversmith Paul Revere, American actor and comedian Paul Stephen Rudd, Rwandan humanitarian Paul Rusesabagina, American singer and songwriter Paul Simon, American musician Paul Stanley, American singer and songwriter Noel Paul Stookey, American travel writer and novelist Paul Edward Theroux Peak Popularity: Paul is a classic name that dates back thousands of years. It was number 19 in 1900 and a top 20 name in the U.S. until 1969. It was in the top 100 through 2000 and held the rank of 252 in 2020. Paul is a top 100 name in France.
Percival
Origin: French, EnglishMeaning: Piercing; pierce the veilAlternative Spellings & Variations: Parsafal, Parsefal, Parsifal, Parsival, Parzival, Peceval, Perc, Perce, Perceval, Percevall, Percey, Perci, Percivale, Percivall, Percy, Peredur, Perry, Persival, Purcell, PurcivalFamous Namesakes: American novelist Percival Everett, American football player William Percival “Percy” Harvin III, American businessman and astronomer Percival Lawrence Lowell, Canadian singer and songwriter Neil Percival YoungPeak Popularity: Percival is an old name, but unique in the United States. It appears on the top 1,000 list twice. In 1901 it held the rank of 925, and in 1902 it was 914.
Philippe
Origin: FrenchMeaning: One who loves and befriends horses Alternative Spellings & Variations: Felipe, Felippe, Filipe, Phellipe, Phil, Philip, Philipe, Phillepe, Phillipe, Phillippe, Phillippee, PhyllipeFamous Namesakes: French volleyball player and coach Philippe Blain, American portrait photographer Philippe Halsman, King of the Belgians Philippe Léopold Louis Marie, French singer and songwriter Philippe Russo, American military officer Philippe de TrobriandPeak Popularity: Philippe is not a common name in the U.S. and does not show up on the top 1,000 list of boys names in the last 120 years. Philippe is more common in France.
Pierre
Origin: FrenchMeaning: Strong and solid like a rock Alternative Spellings & Variations: Peiree, Peter, Pier, Pierce, Piere, Piero, Pierrot, Piers, Pietro, PyerreFamous Namesakes: American NFL football player Pierre Allen, French composer Pierre Louis Joseph Boulez, Canadian singer and songwriter Pierre Charles Bouvier, French physicist Pierre Curie, American NFL football player Pierre Andre Garcon, French painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Swiss photographer Pierre Joseph Rossier, American NFL football player Charles Pierre Thomas, Prime minister of Canada (Joseph Philippe) Pierre Yves Elliott TrudeauPeak Popularity: In the last 120 years in the United States, Pierre had its most popular year in 1986 when it reached its highest rank of 389. In 2014, Pierre dropped off the top 1,000 list in the US. In France, Pierre is a very common name.
Quentin
Origin: French, English, LatinMeaning: The fifth oneAlternative Spellings & Variations: Kwent, Kwenten, Quantin, Quen, Quenelle, Quenn, Quent, Quentan, Quenten, Quentilien, Quenton, Quentyn, Quincy, Quinn, Quint, Quintan, Quintel, Quinten, Quintin, Quintn, Quinton, Quintus, Quito, Qwentin, QwintenFamous Namesakes: English illustrator and writer Sir Quentin Saxby Blake, English DJ and musician Quentin Leo Cook (aka Fatboy Slim) , American football player Quentin Tremaine Jammer, English explorer/writer/filmmaker Quentin Keynes, Flemish painter Quentin Matsys, American football player and coach Quentin Omario Moses, American basketball player Quentin Richardson, son of U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt - Quentin Roosevelt, American film director Quentin Jerome TarantinoPeak Popularity: Quentin is a well-established name. It has been a top 1,000 name many times in the past 100 years. It was most popular in 1919 with a rank of 220. It ranked 540 in 2020.
Raphael
Origin: French, HebrewMeaning: Healed by GodAlternative Spellings & Variations: Falito, Rafael, Rafaele, Rafaelle, Rafaello, Rafaelo, Rafal, Rafe, Rafel, Raffaello, Raffello, Rapfaelle, Raphaél, Raphaelle, Raphaello, Raphale, Rapheal, Raphel, Raphello, Raphie, Raphiel, Ravel, Ray, RephaelFamous Namesakes: Biblical archangel Raphael, American child actor Raphael Alejandro, son of American actor Robert De Niro - Raphael De Niro, Italian singer and pianist Raphael Gualazzi, Italian Renaissance painter Raffaelo Sanzio de Urbino (known as Raphael), Russian-American painter Raphael Soyer, American musician Raphael Saadiq, American actor and director Raphael SbargePeak Popularity: Raphael is an ancient name that dates back thousands of years. It was number 514 in the U.S. in 2020. In France, Raphael is currently a trendy name, and has been in the top 10 since 2015.
René
Origin: French, LatinMeaning: Born again or rebornAlternative Spellings & Variations: Ranae, Ranay, Ranee, Ren, Renae, Renai, Renat, Renato, Renatus, Renault, Renay, Renee, Reney, Reni, Renie, Renn, Renne, Rennee, Rennell, Renney, Rennie, Renny, RhennayFamous Namesakes: Canadian producer and talent manager René Angélil, French aviator Colonel René Paul FonckPeak Popularity: Rene is a traditional boy name that has been in the top 1,000 in the U.S. for well over a century. It was most popular in 1983 with a rank of 256.
Richard
Origin: French, English, GermanMeaning: Strong and powerful rulerAlternative Spellings & Variations: Dick, Dickie, Dicky, Raechard, Rashard, Rhisiart, Ric, Ricard, Ricardo, Rich, Richar, Richardo, Richardsen, Richardson, Richart, Richaud, Richer, Richerd, Richey, Richi, Richie, Richird, Richshard, Rick, Rickard, Ricke, Rickee, Rickert, Rickey, Rickie, Ricky, Rico, Rik, Riocard, Rirsherd, Rishard, Rishi, Ritch, Ritchard, Ritcherd, Ritchey, Ritchie, Ritchy, Ritshard, RykFamous Namesakes: Kings of England Richard I, Richard II, and Richard III, English actor Richard Crispin Armitage, British businessman Sir Richard Charles Nicholas Branson, Welsh actor Richard Burton, English evolutionist (Clinton) Richard Dawkins, American actor Richard Tiffany Gere, 37th U.S. President Richard Milhous Nixon, American comedian Richard Franklin Lennox Thomas Pryor, English drummer Richard Starkey (Ringo Starr), German composer Wilhelm Richard WagnerPeak Popularity: Richard is an ever-popular, long-lived name. It has been a top 200 name in the U.S. for well beyond 100 years. It reached its highest rank of 5 in 1930 and stayed there for 18 years. Richard has also been consistently popular in many other countries including France and Canada.
Roy
Origin: French, German, English Meaning: A king, royal; red-haired Alternative Spellings & Variations: Rey, Roi, Royal, Royalton, Royce, Roycell, Roye, Royle, Ruy Famous Namesakes: American country music singer Roy Claxton Acuff, American humor writer Roy Alton Blount Jr. , American co-founder of Walt Disney Co. Roy Oliver Disney, French-Canadian actor Roy Michael Joseph Dupuis, American fashion designer Roy Halston Frowick, American singer Roy Kent Head, German-American magician Roy Horn (born Uwe Ludwig Horn), American pop artist Roy Fox Lichenstein, American singer and musician Roy Kelton Orbison, American singer and television star Roy Rogers, American baseball players Roy Frederick Smalley Jr. and III Peak Popularity: Roy is a traditional name. It was number 21 in 1900 and a top 100 name until 1969. It has slowly decreased in popularity and ranked 574 in 2020.
Russell
Origin: FrenchMeaning: Having red hair, fox-coloredAlternative Spellings & Variations: Rousell, Ruscell, Rusel, Rush, Russ, Russel, Russelle, Russie, Russo, Russon, Ruste, Rusten, Rustie, Rustin, Ruston, Rusty, RustynFamous Namesakes: English actor and comedian Russell Edward Brand, Australian actor Russell Ira Crowe, English comedian and actor Russell Joseph Howard, American NFL player Russell Okung, Canadian comedian and actor Russell Dominic Peters, son of actress Kate Hudson and musician Chris Robinson - Ryder Russell Robinson, American entrepreneur and music producer Russell Wendell Simmons, American basketball player Russell Westbrook, American NFL player Russell Carrington WilsonPeak Popularity: Russell is another well-established name that has been around for a long time. It was number 62 in 1900 and was in the top 100 until 1983. It held the position of 370 in 2020.
Sacha
Origin: French, GreekMeaning: Defender of humankind, defending warriorAlternative Spellings & Variations: Sache, Sancha, Sascha, Sasha, Sassa, Socha, Soche, Soscha, SoshaFamous Namesakes: English actor and writer Sacha Bennett, English actor and comedian Sacha Noam Baron Cohen, French singer and actor Alexandre “Sacha” Distel, Canadian filmmaker and journalist Alexandre Emmanuel “Sacha” TrudeauPeak Popularity: Sacha is not a common name in the United States and is not part of the top 1,000 list for the last 120 years. However, Sacha is very popular in France where it was in the top 20 in 2017.
Samuel
Origin: French, Hebrew Meaning: Asked of God, told by God Alternative Spellings & Variations: Sam, Samel, Samelle, Sami, Samko, Sammie, Sammy, Samo, Samoule, Samoyla, Samu, Samual, Samualie, Samuele, Samuelis, Samuelito, Samuell, Samuil, Samuku, Samuole, Samvel, Samwel, Samwell, Samy, Schmuel, Shem, Shemuel, Shmuel, Somhairle Famous Namesakes: American revolutionary leader Samuel Adams, American football player Samuel Adrian “Sammy” Baugh, Irish novelist and playwright Samuel Barclay Beckett, Birth name of American novelist Mark Twain - Samuel Langhorne Clemens, American firearm inventor and industrialist Samuel Colt, American singer and actor Samuel George “Sammy” Davis Jr., American news anchor Samuel Andrew “Sam” Donaldson Jr., American actor Samuel Pack “Sam” Elliott, American singer Samuel Roy “Sammy” Hagar, American actor and film producer Samuel Leroy Jackson, American country music singer Samuel Paul “Sammy” Kershaw, American inventor and painter Samuel Finley Breese Morse, American TV producer and director Samuel Michael “Sam” Simon, American golfer Samuel Jackson “Sam” Snead, American founder of Wal-Mart, Samuel Moore “Sam” Walton, Polish-American film producer Samuel Louis “Sam” Warner Peak Popularity: Samuel is a time-honored name. It has been in the top 100 in the United States for well over a century. It was number 33 in 1900 and reached its highest rank of 21 in 2016-2018 before dropping to 25 in 2020. Samuel is also a top 100 name in France.
Sébastien
Origin: French Meaning: Revered, respected and adored Alternative Spellings & Variations: Bas, Bashie, Bashtian, Basti, Bastiaio, Bastian, Bastiano, Bastien, Sabastian, Seb, Seba, Sebashun, Sebasten, Sebastiaio, Sebastian, Sebastiano, Sébastien, Sebastion, Sebastuan, Sebastyen, Sebastyn, Sebby, Sebestyen, Sebo, Servastien, Sevastian, Steb Famous Namesakes: Early Roman martyr Saint Sebastian, French painter and engraver Sébastien Bourdon, English film and television actor (Charles) Sebastian Thomas Cabot, English novelist and journalist Sebastian Charles Faulks, son of American fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger - Sebastian Thomas Hilfiger, American comedian Sebastian Maniscalco, English actor Sebastian Lewis Shaw, American model Sebastian Gabriel Sauvé, English actor and screenwriter Sebastian de Souza Son of rapper Wiz Khalifa and model Amber Rose - Sebastian “Bash” Taylor Thomaz German American football player Sebastian Georg Vollmer Peak Popularity: Sébastien is unique in the United States and not on the top 1,000 list for the last 120 years. However, the alternate spelling, Sebastian, is currently very trendy and ranked number 19 in 2020. The name Sébastien is more common in France.
Simon
Origin: French, Hebrew, GreekMeaning: God has heardAlternative Spellings & Variations: Samein, Semyon, Shimon, Si, Siemen, Siemon, Sim, Simao, Sime, Simeon, Simidh, Simion, Simmy, Simond, Simone, Síomón, Sy, Syme, Symen, Symon, Szmon, Ximen, Ximenes, Ximens, XimunFamous Namesakes: English comedian Simon Marc Amstell, English music producer and TV judge Simon Phillip Cowell, English producer Simon Fuller, English musician Simon Jonathon Gallup, American actor and musician Simon Maxwell Helberg, English singer Simon John Charles Le Bon, Canadian male model Simon Nessman, English actor and comedian Simon John Pegg, American musician Paul SimonPeak Popularity: Simon is a very old name. It was number 236 in 1900 and number 251 in 2020. In France, Simon is a top 100 name.
Sinclair
Origin: French, ScottishMeaning: From Saint ClaireAlternative Spellings & Variations: Clair, Clare, Sinc, Sinclaire, Sinclare, Synclair, Synclare, SynclarieFamous Namesakes: American novelist (Harry) Sinclair Lewis, American novelist Upton SinclairPeak Popularity: Sinclair is an uncommon name that is not in the top 1,000 in the U.S.
Théo
Origin: French, Greek, GermanMeaning: Gift and blessing from God; “the boldest"Alternative Spellings & Variations: Ted, Teddy, Theeo, Theodor, Theodore, Theodoros, Theon, TheosFamous Namesakes: American baseball team president (Chicago Cubs) Theo Nathaniel Epstein, Canadian ice hockey player Theoren Wallace “Theo” Fleury, English singer Theo David Hutchcraft, son of businesswoman Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner - Theodore James “Theo” Kushner, American professional basketball player Theophalus Curtis “Theo” Ratliff, American actor John Theodore “Theo” Rossi, Belgian painter Théophile “Théo” van Rysselberghe , French actor and singer know as Théo Sarapo (birth name Theophanis Lamboukas)Peak Popularity: Theo was popular until 1946 when it fell out of the top 1,000 in the US. It showed up again in 2010 and has risen quickly in the ranks. It was number 172 in 2020, while Theodore was at number 44. Theo is very popular in France where it’s a top 100 name.
Thomas
Origin: French, Greek, Hebrew Meaning: Twin Alternative Spellings & Variations: Thom, Thomason, Thomaz, Thomes, Thomeson, Thomison, Thommas, Thommy, Thompson, Thomsen, Thomson, Thomy, Tom, Tomah, Tomaisin, Tomaro, Tomas, Tomaso, Tomasso, Tomaz, Tomie, Tomio, Tomkin, Tomlin, Tomlinson, Tommas, Tommey, Tommie, Tommy Famous Namesakes: The Apostle Saint Thomas, American television journalist Thomas John “Tom” Brokaw, American inventor Thomas Alva Edison, American fashion designer and filmmaker Thomas Carlyle “Tom” Ford, American actor Thomas Jeffrey “Tom” Hanks, British poet and novelist Thomas Hardy, British Philosopher Thomas Hobbes, 3rd U.S. President Thomas Jefferson, German novelist Paul Thomas Mann, American actor Thomas Cruise Mapother IV (aka Tom Cruise), Irish poet and songwriter Thomas Moore, English-born American revolutionary patriot and political activist Thomas Paine, American singer and songwriter Thomas Earl “Tom” Petty, American singer Thomas Rett Peak Popularity: Thomas is a classic name. It has been a top 100 name in the U.S. for a very long time. It was number 8 in popularity 17 times in the last 100 years. It is also a top 100 name in France.
Travis
Origin: French, EnglishMeaning: To cross over at the crossing or the crossroadsAlternative Spellings & Variations: Travais, Travees, Traver, Travers, Traves, Traveus, Travious, Traviss, Travius, Travous, Travus, Travys, Trayvis, Trevais, Treves, Trevez, Treveze, Trevis, Trevius, Treviuss, TrevizFamous Namesakes: Son of actors Kyra Sedgwick and Kevin Bacon - Travis Sedgwick Bacon, American musician and songwriter Travis Landon Barker, American singer and songwriter Travis Clark, American baseball player Travis Takashi Ishikawa, American NFL player Travis Michael Kelce, American musician Travis Lazarus “Travie” McCoy, American actor Travis Schuldt, American baseball player Travis Richard Shaw, American television personality and emergency physician Travis Stork, American singer and songwriter (James) Travis TrittPeak Popularity: Travis has been a top 1,000 for over 100 years. It was most popular in 1979 with a rank of 36. It ranked 339 in 2020.
Tristan
Origin: French, English, CelticMeaning: Sad and full of sorrow; noise; boldAlternative Spellings & Variations: Trestan, Tresten, Trestin, Treston, Trestton, Trestyn, Tris, Trisan, Trisden, Trissten, Trist, Tristain, Tristam, Tristano, Tristen, Tristian, Tristien, Triston, Tristram, Tristyn, Tristynne, Trystan, Trysten, Trystian, Trystin, Trystn, Tryston, TrystynFamous Namesakes: French playwright Tristan Bernard, American soccer player Tristan Bown, British musician Tristan Oliver Vance Evans, French composer Tristan Murail, American actor Jared Tristan Padalecki, son of American singer Travis Tritt - Tristan James Tritt, son of Don Trump Jr. - Tristan Milos Trump, American actor and singer Tristan Paul Mack WildsPeak Popularity: Tristan hit the top 1,000 in 1971. It had its best year in 1996 when it reached number 68. It ranked 183rd in 2020.
Valentin
Origin: French, Latin, RussianMeaning: Healthy and valiant Alternative Spellings & Variations: Val, Valen, Valenceo, Valente, Valenteo, Valenti, Valentijan, Valentin, Valentine, Valentinian, Valentino, Valentinus, Valenton, Valentyn, Vali, Valiant, Valient, Valin, VallinitinFamous Namesakes: American voice actor Valentine ‘Val” John Bettin, French painter Valentin de Boulogne, Ukranian-American dancer Valentin Aleksandrovich “Val” Chmerkovskiy, German Reformation scholar Valentin Friedland, Russian jazz musician Valentin Yakovlevich Parnakh, Russian painter Valentin SerovPeak Popularity: Valentin has been on and off the top 1,000 list in the U.S. since 1934. Its best rank was 614 in 2007. In France, Valentin is a popular, top 100 name.
Victor
Origin: French, LatinMeaning: The winner or victorious oneAlternative Spellings & Variations: Vic, Vick, Vico, Victa, Victer, Victin, Victoir, Victoire, Victore, Victoriano, Victorien, Victorin, Victorino, Victorio, Victoro, Vidor, Vik, Vikter, Viktor, Vitin, Vittorio, Vitya, WictorFamous Namesakes: American news anchor Victor Blackwell, French philosopher Victor Cousin, American football player Victor Cruz, American actor and director Victor Edwin French, Canadian actor and singer Victor Joseph Garber, French novelist and playwright Victor Marie Hugo, Canadian ice dancer Victor KraatzPeak Popularity: Victor is a long-standing name that has been in the top 200 in the United States for a very long time. Victor is also prominent in France where it is a top 100 name.
Yves
Origin: French, GermanMeaning: An archerAlternative Spellings & Variations: Eve, Eves, Evo, Ives, Ivo, Yve, Yvo, YvonFamous Namesakes: Swiss designer Yves Béhar, French poet and art historian Yves Bonnefoy, French chemist and winner of the Nobel prize Yves Chauvin, French painter and performance artist Yves Klein, French fashion designer Yves Henri Donat Mathieu-Saint Laurent, Italian-French actor and singer Yves Montard, French pianist Jean-Yves ThibaudetPeak Popularity: Yves is not common in the United States and does not appear in the top 1,000. It is a more common name in France and the Netherlands.
