52 Popular French Names and Their Meanings

At Mum’s Grapevine, we know that choosing the perfect name for your little one is a journey filled with excitement and care. With the French reputation for passion and creativity, it’s no wonder their names have inspired some of the most magnifique choices for your baby. These names not only roll off the tongue but also captivate with their enchanting sounds and rich meanings.

Whether you’re expecting a little croissant of your own or simply exploring options, Mum’s Grapevine is here to guide you through our curated list of 52 favourite names for baby girls and boys. Let’s embark on this delightful naming adventure together – au revoir for now!

Fashion-Forward Names

If you’re looking for something chic and trendy, fashion-inspired names are the way to go.

Chloé: It’s a French luxury brand for women with a youthful bohemian aesthetic.
Anaïs: We’re thinking of the pretty and iconic fragrance Anais Anais from Cacharel.
Marc: Channelling the American fashion house with a big dose of cool.
Collette: An Australian gem we won’t forget, Colette Dinnigan was an icon in Australian fashion, especially in the early 2000’s.
Chanel: Perhaps the most recognised fashion label of all time, and certainly the most classic.
Louis: LV – need we say more?
Laurent: Speaking of acronyms, we’re thinking of YSL but you’re forgiven if your mind goes straight to the cafe of the same name. Mmm, croissants.

Floral-Inspired Names

Inspired by the beauty of nature, these names carry the essence of flowers:

• Anemone
• Azalea
• Bleuette (cornflower)
• Camille (chamomile)
• Capucine (nasturtium)
• Chloé (green shoot)
• Daisy
• Fleur (flower)
• Iris
• Jasmine
• Marguerite (daisy)
• Rose
• Violette (violet)
• Aubépine (hawthorn)
• Basilic (basil)
• Cosmos
• Jonquille (daffodil)
• Lys (lily)
• Muguet (lily of the valley)
• Narcisse (narcissus)
• Olivier (olive tree)
• Pissenlit (dandelion)
• Renoncule (buttercup)
• Tilleul (lime tree)
• Tulipe (tulip)

Celebrities with These Names

Stars with French first names are everywhere we look, whether they are Aussie celebrities, part of the Hollywood elite, or sporting greats. Let’s pay homage to some of our favourite stars:

Popular French Name Meanings

Aimée (ay-may)

Aimée is a beautiful name that means “beloved.” It is a popular choice for girls in France and around the world, ranked in the top 100 most popular girl names in many countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Shortened names: Aim, Emmy, Mimi

Aimée is also the name of several famous people, including actresses Aimée Wood from Sex Education and Aimée Garcia from Dexter.

Adeline (ad-uh-lin)

Adeline is a beautiful name that means “noble.” It is a popular choice for girls in France and around the world, ranked in the top 100 most popular girl names in many countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Shortened names: Addie, Addi, Ade, Adel, Del, Ellie, Dina, Lena, Lina,

Adeline is also the name of several famous people, including actress Adeline Rudolph from Riverdale and singer Adeline Laflamme.

Adrien (ah-dree-en)

Adrien is a handsome and distinguished name that carries a sense of refinement and strength. Meaning “dark” or “rich,” this name has a classic and timeless appeal, making it a favoured choice for boys.

Shortened names: Ad, Ari

Notable individuals named Adrien include the influential fashion designer Adrien Sauvage and the acclaimed actor Adrien Brody. Adrien’s association with richness adds a touch of depth and sophistication to this enduring and stylish name.

Amélie (ah-may-lee)

Amélie is a charming and whimsical name that means “hardworking” or “industrious.” This name carries a sense of grace and has a timeless appeal, making it a favourite choice for girls who exude both sweetness and determination.

Shortened names: Ami, Lee, Lia, Mel, Mia, Millie, Molly

Notable individuals named Amélie include the delightful character Amélie Poulain from the iconic film Amélie and the talented actress Amélie Nothomb.

Anouk (ah-nook)

Anouk is a delightful and unique name that carries a sense of charm and whimsy. Meaning “grace” or “favor,” this name has a distinctive quality that makes it stand out as a lovely choice for girls.

Shortened names: Nouk, Anu, Annie, Anou, Anneke, Anoukka

Notable individuals named Anouk include the talented actress Anouk Aimée and the acclaimed filmmaker Anouk Whissell. If you are looking for a name that is both unique and beautiful, a name that is sure to bring joy and excitement to your child’s life, then Anouk is the perfect choice.

Audrey (aw-dree)

Audrey is an elegant and timeless name that carries an air of sophistication and grace. Meaning “noble strength” or “noble beauty,” this name has a classic appeal that transcends generations, making it a beloved choice for girls.

Shortened names: Audie, Adrie, Addy, Addie

Notable individuals named Audrey include the iconic actress Audrey Hepburn, celebrated for her timeless beauty and talent, and the talented singer-songwriter Audrey Mika. Audrey’s association with nobility adds a touch of regality and timeless charm to this enduring and stylish name.

Aurélie (oh-ray-lee)

Aurélie is an elegant and melodic name that means “golden” or “gilded.” This name carries a sense of warmth and sophistication, making it a favoured choice for girls with a touch of radiance.

Shortened names: Rory, Arie, Aurie, Rey

Notable individuals named Aurélie include the talented actress Aurélie Dupont, renowned for her contributions to the world of ballet, and the accomplished musician Aurélie Bidermann. Aurélie’s association with gold adds a touch of luxury and timeless beauty to this graceful name.

Baptiste (bahp-teest)

Baptiste is a beautiful and meaningful name that is perfect for your precious little boy. It is a strong and dignified name that carries a sense of reverence and grace. Meaning “baptist” or “to dip,” this name has a classic and timeless quality, making it a favoured choice for parents around the world.

Shortened names: Bap, Bast, Bastien,

Some notable individuals named Baptiste include the influential musician Baptiste Trotignon and the acclaimed actor Baptiste Giabiconi. Baptiste’s association with baptism adds a touch of depth and spiritual significance to this enduring and stylish name.

Bastien (bahs-tee-en)

Bastien is a strong and distinguished name that exudes a sense of resilience and charm. As a diminutive of Sébastien, meaning “venerable” or “revered,” this name carries a classic and timeless quality that makes it a favourite choice for boys.

Shortened names: Seb, Stan, Ben, Bat

Notable individuals named Bastien include the talented musician Bastien Baker and the acclaimed actor Bastien Bouillon. Bastien’s association with reverence adds a touch of dignity and strength to this enduring and stylish name.

Beau (bo)

Beau is an elegant name that carries the meaning of “handsome” or “beautiful.” This name exudes charm and sophistication, making it a favoured choice for either boys or girls not only in France but also across the globe. It consistently holds a position among the top names for boys and girls in various countries, showcasing its timeless appeal.

Shortened names: Bo, Bea, Bee

Notable individuals named Beau include the talented actress Beau Garrett from Firefly Lane, actor Beau Mirchoff, recognised for his role in Awkward, and the charismatic TV host of The Amazing Race Beau Ryan. The name Beau adds a touch of refinement to any context, embodying both style and grace.

Bernadette (behr-nah-dritt)

Bernadette is a charming name that carries an endearing meaning, “brave as a bear.” This name exudes strength and warmth, making it a delightful choice for girls. While maintaining its French roots, Bernadette has found a place in the hearts of parents globally, appreciated for its timeless appeal.

Shortened names: Bernie, Bette, Berna, Detta, Birdie, Netta

Notable individuals named Bernadette include the beloved actress Bernadette Peters, celebrated for her contributions to Broadway, and Saint Bernadette Soubirous, who is known for her visions of the Virgin Mary at Lourdes, France. Bernadette’s combination of resilience and grace makes it a name that stands out with a touch of both courage and sweetness.

Camille (ka-meel)

Camille is a sophisticated and versatile name that carries a sense of grace and charm. Meaning “young ceremonial attendant” or “free-born,” this name has a timeless elegance that makes it a popular choice for both boys and girls.

Shortened names: Cam, Millie, Mille, Cami, Cee, Mill

Notable individuals named Camille include the influential artist Camille Pissarro and the acclaimed actress Camille Coduri. Camille’s association with youthfulness and freedom adds a touch of whimsy and sophistication to this classic and enduring name.

Celeste (seh-less)

Celeste is an ethereal name that translates to “heavenly” or “celestial.” This name carries a sense of elegance and grace, making it a popular choice for girls with a timeless and celestial charm.

Shortened names: Cel, Essie, Les, Cece, Celi

Notable figures named Celeste include the talented comedian Celeste Barber, and the accomplished actress Celeste Holm. Celeste’s connection to the heavens adds a touch of mystique to this enchanting name.

Charlotte (shar-loht)

Charlotte is a regal name that signifies “free” or “petite.” This name exudes sophistication and has become a global favourite for its combination of classic charm and modern appeal.

Shortened names: Charlie, Lottie, Char, Charly, Lotta, Carl

Famous individuals named Charlotte include the graceful Princess Charlotte of Cambridge, the daughter of Prince William and Kate Middleton, and the most famous spider of all Charlotte’s Web. Charlotte’s timeless elegance and versatility make it a name that resonates across different cultures and generations.

Chloé (kloh-ee)

Chloé is a chic and stylish name that means “blooming” or “green shoot.” This name carries an air of freshness and vitality, making it a popular choice for girls who embody natural beauty.

Shortened names: Clo, Coco, Lo

Notable personalities named Chloé include the talented fashion designer Chloé Gosselin and the talented Aussie actor Chloe Hayden from Heartbreak High. Chloé’s association with growth and beauty adds a touch of botanical grace to this trendy name.

Clementine (kleh-men-teen)

Clementine is a vintage name that radiates sweetness and charm. Meaning “merciful” or “gentle,” this name has a timeless appeal that has captivated parents across different eras.

Shortened names: Clem, Cleo, Tina, Minty, Emmy, Clement

Famous individuals named Clementine include the beloved folk singer-songwriter Clementine Creevy, actor Clementine Ford and the iconic First Lady Clementine Churchill. Clementine’s quaint and gentle aura makes it a name that carries a sense of warmth and kindness.

Claude (kloh-d)

Claude is a strong and classic French name with a meaning rooted in “lame” or “limping.” This name carries a sense of resilience and has been a popular choice for boys and girls in France, but is more commonly used for boys in other countries.

Shortened names: Claw, CC, Cloud, Claudey

Notable figures named Claude include the influential artist Claude Monet and the acclaimed composer Claude Debussy. Claude’s timeless appeal and artistic connection make it a name that resonates with a touch of creativity and endurance.

Colette (koh-let)

Colette is a sophisticated and charming name that exudes grace and femininity. Meaning “victory of the people,” this name has a classic elegance that makes it a timeless choice for girls.

Shortened names: Coco, Cole, Etta, Lettie

Notable individuals named Colette include the iconic French author Colette and the talented actress Colette Marchand. Colette’s association with victory adds a touch of strength and beauty to this enduring and graceful name.

Delphine (del-feen)

Delphine is an elegant and graceful name that carries a sense of sophistication and beauty. Meaning “dolphin,” this name has a timeless appeal, making it a delightful choice for girls.

Shortened names: Del, Delle, Delf, Philly, Fifi, Delly

Notable individuals named Delphine include the talented actress Delphine Seyrig and the influential French writer Delphine de Girardin. Delphine’s association with dolphins adds a touch of charm and elegance to this enduring and graceful name.

Dominique (doh-min-ee-k)

Dominique is a charismatic name that means “belonging to the Lord” or “of the Lord.” This name exudes strength and elegance, making it a popular choice for both boys and girls.

Shortened names: Dom, Nico, Minnie, Nicky, Domo

Famous individuals named Dominique include the accomplished Gymnast Dominique Dawes and the influential politician Dominique de Villepin. Dominique’s connection to divinity adds a touch of grace and significance to this versatile name.

Gaston (gas-tohn)

Gaston is a strong and noble French name that signifies “from Gascony.” This name carries a sense of regality and has a timeless appeal, making it a classic choice for boys.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Gaston include the beloved character Gaston from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast and the influential chef Gaston Bachelard. Gaston is a strong and classic name with a lot of history.

Elise (eh-lees)

Elise is a timeless and graceful name that carries an air of elegance and simplicity. Meaning “pledged to God” or “consecrated to God,” this name has a classic charm that makes it a delightful choice for girls.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Elise include the talented pianist Elise Trouw and the acclaimed actress Elise Neal. Elise’s association with devotion and consecration adds a touch of depth and meaning to this lovely and enduring name.

Élodie (eh-loh-dee)

Élodie is a melodious name that means “foreign riches” or “wealth.” This name carries a sense of grace and sophistication, making it a delightful choice for girls with a touch of international flair.

Origin: French

Famous individuals named Élodie include the talented actress Élodie Yung, known for her roles in film and television, and the acclaimed musician Élodie Frégé. Élodie’s combination of richness and elegance makes it a name that resonates with a sense of worldly charm.

Elroy (el-roy)

Elroy is a distinctive name that carries a meaning of “the king” or “royal.” This name has a unique and regal appeal, making it a choice that stands out with a touch of majesty.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Elroy include the charismatic musician Elroy Bailey and the influential filmmaker Elroy Hirsch. Elroy’s association with royalty adds a sense of grandeur and individuality to this memorable name.

Étienne (ay-tyen)

Étienne is a classic and charming name that carries a sense of elegance and sophistication. Meaning “crown” or “garland,” this name has a timeless appeal, making it a popular choice for boys.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Étienne include the influential mathematician Étienne Bézout and the talented actor Étienne Chicot. Étienne’s association with crowns adds a touch of regality and style to this enduring and distinguished name.

Félix (fay-leeks)

Félix is a strong and charismatic name that carries a sense of joy and fortune. Meaning “happy” or “lucky,” this name has a classic and timeless appeal, making it a popular choice for boys.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Félix include the influential artist Félix Vallotton and the acclaimed actor Félix Moati. Félix’s association with happiness and luck adds a touch of positivity and charm to this enduring and stylish name.

Fleur (fluhr)

Fleur is a delicate and enchanting name that translates to “flower.” This name carries a sense of natural beauty and has a timeless appeal, making it a favourite choice for girls.

Origin: French

Famous individuals named Fleur include the graceful dancer Fleur Delacour from the Harry Potter series and the talented singer Fleur East. Fleur’s connection to flowers adds a touch of botanical elegance to this charming name.

Frederic (freh-deh-reek)

Frederic is a classic and refine name that means “peaceful ruler” or “peaceful king.” This name carries a sense of dignity and has been a favoured choice for boys, embodying both tradition and grace.

Origin: French

Notable figures named Frederic include the influential composer Frederic Chopin and the esteemed author Frederic Bastiat. Frederic’s association with peace and leadership adds a touch of regality to this timeless name.

Gérard (zhay-rahr)

Gérard is a distinguished and timeless French name that carries a sense of strength and grace. Meaning “brave spear” or “hardy,” this name has a classic and enduring quality, making it a favoured choice for boys.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Gérard include the acclaimed actor Gérard Depardieu and the influential composer Gérard Grisey. Gérard’s association with bravery and hardiness adds a touch of resilience and sophistication to this enduring and stylish name.

Hugo (oo-go)

Hugo is a strong and distinguished name that carries a sense of power and charisma. Meaning “mind” or “intellect,” this name has a classic and timeless quality, making it a popular choice for boys.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Hugo include the influential author Victor Hugo and the talented actor Hugo Weaving. Hugo’s association with intellect adds a touch of depth and sophistication to this enduring and stylish name.

Jean (zhahn)

Jean is a classic and versatile name that carries a sense of simplicity and timelessness. As a variant of John, meaning “God is gracious,” this name has a traditional and enduring quality, making it a popular choice for both boys and girls.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Jean include the iconic fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier and the influential actress Jean Seberg. Jean’s association with God’s grace adds a touch of meaning and grace to this enduring and stylish name.

Juliette (zhoo-lee-ett)

Juliette is a romantic and timeless French name that means “youthful” or “downy.” This name carries an air of elegance and has been a popular choice for girls, evoking the classic beauty of Shakespeare’s Juliet.

Origin: French

Famous individuals named Juliette include the acclaimed actress Juliette Binoche and the talented singer Juliette Gréco. Juliette’s connection to youthfulness and romance adds a touch of poetic charm to this enchanting name.

Louis (lwee)

Louis is a regal and enduring name that signifies “famous warrior” or “renowned in battle.” This name carries a sense of nobility and has been a favoured choice for boys, embodying both tradition and strength.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Louis include the iconic French king Louis XIV and the influential musician Louis Armstrong. Louis’s association with fame and battle adds a touch of grandeur to this classic and timeless name.

Luc (lewk)

Luc is a strong and timeless name that means “light” or “illumination.” This name carries a sense of clarity and has been a popular choice for boys, embodying both simplicity and strength.

Origin: French

Famous individuals named Luc include the acclaimed actor Luc Besson and the influential scientist Luc Montagnier. Luc’s association with light adds a touch of brightness and brilliance to this classic and enduring name.

Madeline (mad-uh-leen)

Madeline is a sweet and classic French name that means “tower” or “woman from Magdala.” This name carries a sense of charm and has been a popular choice for girls, evoking a timeless and endearing quality.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Madeline include the beloved children’s book character Madeline and the talented actress Madeline Kahn. Madeline’s connection to towers and Magdala adds a touch of whimsy and historical significance to this delightful name.

Marcel (mar-sel)

Marcel is a classic and timeless French name that carries a sense of strength and refinement. Meaning “little warrior” or “young warrior,” this name has a noble and enduring quality that has made it a popular choice for boys.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Marcel include the influential French philosopher Marcel Mauss and the celebrated fashion designer Marcel Rochas. Marcel’s association with warrior-like qualities adds a touch of resilience and determination to this distinguished name.

Marc (mark)

Marc is a straightforward and timeless name that signifies “warlike” or “dedicated to Mars, the Roman god of war.” This name exudes strength and resilience, making it a classic choice for boys with a touch of traditional charm.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Marc include the influential fashion designer Marc Jacobs and the iconic musician Marc Bolan. Marc’s association with warlike attributes adds a sense of determination and boldness to this enduring and widely appreciated name.

Margot (mar-go)

Margot is a sweet and timeless name that carries a sense of innocence and charm. Meaning “pearl,” this name has a classic elegance that makes it a beloved choice for girls.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Margot include the talented actress Margot Robbie and the iconic French queen Margot of Valois. Margot’s association with pearls adds a touch of beauty and sophistication to this enduring and graceful name.

Mathieu (mah-tyoo)

Mathieu is a classic and handsome name that exudes strength and timeless charm. As a variant of Matthew, meaning “gift of God,” this name carries a sense of reverence and grace, making it a favoured choice for boys.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Mathieu include the talented soccer player Mathieu Flamini and the influential composer Mathieu Amalric. Mathieu’s association with being a gift of God adds a meaningful and cherished quality to this enduring and distinguished name.

Noel (noh-el)

Noel is a festive and endearing name that translates to “Christmas” or “born on Christmas Day.” This name carries a joyful and celebratory spirit, making it a popular choice for boys, especially those born during the holiday season.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Noel include the acclaimed musician Noel Gallagher and the beloved actor Noel Fielding. Noel’s connection to the Christmas season adds a touch of warmth and merriment to this timeless and festive name.

Océane (oh-say-ahn)

Océane is a beautiful and evocative name that carries a sense of depth and mystery. As a name inspired by the ocean, Océane has a fluid and enchanting quality, making it a lovely choice for girls.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Océane include the talented French tennis player Océane Dodin and the accomplished actress Océane Rose Marie. Océane’s connection to the vastness of the ocean adds a touch of elegance and natural beauty to this unique and captivating name.

Pierre (pyehr)

Pierre is a classic and enduring name that carries a sense of strength and timeless charm. Meaning “rock” or “stone,” this name has a traditional and dignified quality, making it a beloved choice for boys.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Pierre include the influential physicist Pierre Curie and the iconic fashion designer Pierre Cardin. Pierre’s association with solidity and strength adds a touch of resilience and sophistication to this enduring and stylish name.

Remi (reh-mee)

Rémi is a charming and melodic French name that means “oarsman” or “remedy.” This name carries a sense of grace and versatility, making it a popular choice for boys with a touch of timeless elegance.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Rémi include the beloved character Rémi the Mouse from the classic French novel “Sans Famille” (Nobody’s Boy) and the talented actor Rémi Malek, known for his award-winning performances. Rémi’s association with oarsmanship and remedy adds a unique and meaningful quality to this delightful name.

Romain (roh-mahn)

Romain is a strong and sophisticated French name that signifies “from Rome” or “Roman.” This name carries a sense of history and classic elegance, making it a timeless choice for boys.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Romain include the acclaimed French actor Romain Duris and the influential chef Romain Fornell. Romain’s association with Rome adds a touch of grandeur and cultural richness to this distinguished name, making it resonate with a sense of enduring style.

Sandrine (san-dreen)

Sandrine is a graceful and timeless name that carries a sense of charm and sophistication. This name is a variant of Alexandra, meaning “defender of the people,” and it has a classic elegance that has made it a beloved choice for girls.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Sandrine include the talented actress Sandrine Bonnaire, recognized for her acclaimed performances, and the accomplished athlete Sandrine Aubert. Sandrine’s association with the meaning “defender of the people” adds a touch of strength and grace to this delightful and enduring name.

Théo (teh-oh)

Théo is a stylish and endearing name that is a diminutive form of Théodore, meaning “gift of God.” This name carries a sense of charm and warmth, making it a popular choice for boys with a touch of timeless elegance.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Théo include the talented soccer player Théo Hernandez and the acclaimed actor Théo Fernandez. Théo’s association with being a gift of God adds a meaningful and cherished quality to this delightful and enduring name.

Vivienne (vee-veen)

Vivienne is an elegant and timeless name that exudes grace and sophistication. Meaning “alive” or “full of life,” this name has a vibrant and charming quality that has made it a favourite choice for girls.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Vivienne include the iconic fashion designer Vivienne Westwood and the talented actress Vivienne Leigh. Vivienne’s association with vitality and life adds a touch of energy and timeless allure to this classic and enduring name.

Yves (eev)

Yves is a sophisticated and timeless name from France that carries a sense of style and grace. Meaning “yew” or “archer,” this name has a classic and dignified quality, making it a popular choice for boys.

Origin: French

Notable individuals named Yves include the influential fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and the iconic photographer Yves Klein. Yves’s association with the yew tree and archery adds a touch of natural beauty and strength to this enduring and stylish name.

Choosing the perfect name for your little one is a journey filled with excitement, and French names offer a rich tapestry of options that are both timeless and unique. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of classic names or the charm of something more contemporary, the selection of French names can add a touch of sophistication and meaning to your child’s identity.

Bonne chance in your naming journey!

We’ve got the scoop on the best baby names for boys or girls. Explore our extensive baby name collections for popular names, unique names, names from around the globe, and top names for boys or girl names.

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Got baby name brain freeze?

Swing by our Grapeviner Due Date Groups and connect with other mums-to-be who are just as excited about baby names as you are. Swap ideas, discuss your favourite names, and make the naming journey a memorable one. Come on in everyone’s welcome – and let’s talk baby names!