Ooh la la! French girl names are the epitome of chic, blending vintage charm with modern elegance. From the timeless sophistication of Charlotte to the floral delicacy of Marguerite, these names carry an undeniable allure. Our guide goes beyond the obvious to reveal hidden treasures like Élodie and Manon, complete with proper accents, pronunciations, and fascinating histories. Learn why certain names dominate different eras (the Marie wave of the 1920s vs. the Emma boom today), how French naming laws influence choices, and which names travel well beyond France's borders. Whether you're drawn to royal names like Louise, literary choices like Cosette, or nature-inspired picks like Violette, you'll find the perfect name with that certain French flair.
🎁 Match Your Baby’s Name with Their Birthstone
Every baby’s name holds a story—and so does their birthstone. Discover the perfect gemstone to match your baby's birth month, energy, and name style:
1. Amélie
Origin: French form of Germanic Amalia
Meaning: "Work" or "industrious"
Description: Made internationally famous by the 2001 film Amélie, this name (ah-may-LEE) embodies Parisian charm with its soft, melodic flow. The accent aigu (é) gives it quintessential French flair, while its vintage roots trace back to medieval nobility. Unlike the harder-sounding Amelia, Amélie floats off the tongue with effortless grace. It saw a resurgence in the 1990s and remains a top choice for parents seeking a name that’s both whimsical and sophisticated.
2. Élodie
Origin: Occitan (Southern French)
Meaning: "Foreign riches" or "marsh flower"
Description: With its lyrical three-syllable rhythm (ay-lo-DEE), Élodie feels like a Provençal love song. The name’s soft vowels and delicate "-die" ending create an aura of romance, while its regional roots connect it to France’s sun-drenched south. Popularized in the 1980s, it strikes a perfect balance between vintage charm and modern freshness. The accent aigu adds an unmistakably French touch, distinguishing it from similar-sounding names like Melody.
3. Geneviève
Origin: Germanic via French
Meaning: "Woman of the race" or "white wave"
Description: The patron saint of Paris, Geneviève (zhun-vee-EV), carries centuries of French history. Its medieval grandeur is softened by the affectionate nickname "Ginette" or "Gigi." The name’s unique "ève" ending (shared with Ève) gives it a poetic, almost mystical quality. Though traditionally associated with nobility, it’s now embraced for its vintage revival appeal, offering a strong yet feminine choice with deep cultural roots.
4. Margaux
Origin: French place name (wine region)
Meaning: "Pearl" (linked to Margaret)
Description: Made famous by actress Margaux Hemingway, this spelling (mar-GO) adds a touch of vinicultural sophistication. Unlike "Margot," the "-aux" ending is distinctly French, evoking Bordeaux’s vineyards. The name balances rustic charm (from its origins as a wine-producing village) with cosmopolitan elegance. Its subtle "x" gives it a modern edge while maintaining classic appeal.
5. Colette
Origin: French feminine of Nicolas
Meaning: "Victory of the people"
Description: This literary gem (koh-LET) channels the spirit of writer Colette, who captured Parisian life in the early 20th century. The "-ette" suffix (meaning "little") adds delicate femininity, while the crisp "t" ending keeps it sophisticated. After a mid-century lull, it’s now revived by parents seeking a name that’s short, chic, and packed with artistic heritage.
6. Camille
Origin: Latin unisex name
Meaning: "Perfect" or "young ceremonial attendant"
Description: In France, Camille (ka-MEEY) leans feminine, exuding effortless Parisian cool. The double "l" softens into a delicate "y" sound, creating a name that’s both strong and graceful. Famous bearers like sculptor Camille Claudel highlight its artistic connections. Its unisex flexibility (used for boys in the U.S.) adds modern appeal, while its Roman roots ground it in timelessness.
7. Léa
Origin: French form of Hebrew Leah
Meaning: "Weary" (historically) or "meadow" (modern interpretation)
Description: The accent aigu transforms Leah into Léa (LAY-ah), giving it a breezy, French inflection. A longtime favorite in France, it’s short yet melodious, with an open vowel sound that feels sunny and approachable. Its simplicity allows it to pair beautifully with longer middle names (Léa Marie, Léa Victoire). The name’s gentle rhythm and international recognizability make it a versatile choice.
8. Adèle
Origin: French form of Germanic Adela
Meaning: "Noble"
Description: Hauntingly beautiful (ah-DEL), this name gained global attention through singer Adele (who dropped the accent). The French version’s grave accent (è) adds a melancholic elegance, while its single-syllable punch makes it memorable. Literary ties to Les Misérables (Fantine’s daughter) and 19th-century French royalty give it historical depth. It’s a minimalist name with maximum sophistication.
9. Ophélie
Origin: French form of Ophelia
Meaning: "Help" (Greek)
Description: Shakespeare’s tragic heroine takes on new life in French (oh-fay-LEE), where the "ph" softens to an "f" sound. The name’s ethereal quality is heightened by its association with water (from Hamlet). French painter Ophélie Redon and actress Ophélie Bau deepened its artistic connections. The accent aigu and flowing "-lie" ending create a dreamy, romantic aura.
10. Manon
Origin: French diminutive of Marie
Meaning: "Beloved" or "bitter"
Description: A name that’s quintessentially French (ma-NON), evoking cobblestone streets and café terraces. Though originally a nickname, it stands strong on its own, popularized by the 18th-century novel Manon Lescaut. The name’s playful yet sophisticated vibe makes it enduringly popular in France, with a sound that’s both sweet and slightly mischievous.
Baby Names A–Z
11. Cécile
Origin: French form of Latin Cecilia
Meaning: "Blind" (historically) or "musical" (linked to Saint Cecilia)
Description: The French twist (say-SEEL) elevates Cecilia with a whispery, poetic cadence. The two accented "é"s create a melodic rhythm, while its association with music (Saint Cecilia is the patroness of musicians) adds artistic depth. It’s a name that feels both vintage and fresh, with nickname potential in "Céci" or "Cecilie."
12. Élise
Origin: French contraction of Élisabeth
Meaning: "God is my oath"
Description: Simpler than Élisabeth but equally elegant (ay-LEEZ), this name dances like the notes of Beethoven’s Für Elise. The accent aigu gives it a lifted, airy quality, while its single-syllable punch makes it effortlessly chic. It’s a name that works equally well for a child or a CEO, blending softness with strength.
13. Anouk
Origin: French diminutive of Anna
Meaning: "Grace"
Description: Though Dutch in origin, Anouk (ah-NOOK) became a French favorite through actress Anouk Aimée. The name’s bold "k" ending adds unexpected edge to its soft beginning, creating a striking balance. It’s short, memorable, and just exotic enough to stand out while remaining easy to pronounce.
14. Coralie
Origin: French from Latin corallium
Meaning: "Coral"
Description: A maritime jewel (koh-rah-LEE), evoking the rosy hues of Mediterranean coral. The name’s fluid vowels and "-lie" ending give it a mermaid-like allure. It’s a less common alternative to Coraline, offering vintage charm without feeling overused. The oceanic connection makes it perfect for families who love the sea.
15. Delphine
Origin: French from Greek delphis
Meaning: "Dolphin"
Description: Mythically tied to the Oracle of Delphi, Delphine (del-FEEN) shimmers with aquatic grace. The "-phine" ending (shared with Josephine) adds aristocratic flair, while its marine meaning keeps it fresh. French novelist Delphine de Vigan and fashion house Delphine Pariente give it modern sophistication.
16. Aurélie
Origin: French from Latin Aurelius
Meaning: "Golden"
Description: This gilded name (oh-ray-LEE) shimmers with Roman heritage, softened by French melodic flow. The accent aigu lifts the first syllable like sunlight, while the "-lie" ending adds delicate femininity. 1980s pop singer Aurélie Claudel revived its modern appeal. Its luminous meaning and three-syllable rhythm make it an elegant alternative to Laura.
17. Blanche
Origin: Old French
Meaning: "White"
Description: A medieval classic (BLONSH) evoking purity and sophistication. The crisp "ch" sound (like "champagne") keeps it distinctly French. Literary fame came through Blanche DuBois in A Streetcar Named Desire, though in France it's associated with 12th-century Queen Blanche of Castile. Its vintage charm is ripe for revival among minimalist namers.
18. Capucine
Origin: French flower name
Meaning: "Nasturtium"
Description: A botanical rarity (ka-poo-SEEN) bursting with Parisian flair. The "-cine" ending rhymes with "queen," giving it regal vibrance. Model Capucine (born Germaine Lefebvre) made it iconic in 1960s cinema. Its floral whimsy and four syllables create a name that's both playful and refined.
19. Delphine
Origin: Greek via French
Meaning: "Dolphin"
Description: Mythological and marine (del-FEEN), this name channels the Oracle of Delphi's wisdom. The "ph" digraph adds Hellenic sophistication, while the "-ine" ending floats like a wave. French feminist Delphine Seyrig gives it modern edge. Its aquatic elegance makes it perfect for ocean-loving families.
20. Eléonore
Origin: Provençal French form of Eleanor
Meaning: "Light"
Description: The elongated French spelling (el-ay-oh-NOR) adds musicality to this regal name. Medieval Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine cemented its aristocratic prestige. The three accented vowels create a lyrical cadence, while nicknames like "Nora" or "Léa" offer versatility. A luminescent choice with historical gravitas.
21. Fleur
Origin: French
Meaning: "Flower"
Description: Botanical simplicity (FLUHR) distilled into one perfect syllable. Made famous by Harry Potter's Fleur Delacour, it embodies effortless French chic. The silent "r" at the end gives it a whisper-soft finish. Its minimalist beauty pairs well with longer middle names like Fleur Marguerite or Fleur Isabelle.
22. Gaëlle
Origin: Breton French
Meaning: "Generous"
Description: A Celtic gift to French naming (gah-EL). The tréma (ë) adds exotic flair while ensuring proper pronunciation. The double "l" softens into a gentle "y" sound, creating melodic flow. Its Breton roots honor France's regional diversity, offering a nature-connected alternative to Gabrielle.
23. Héloïse
Origin: Germanic via French
Meaning: "Healthy" or "wide"
Description: Medieval romance personified (ay-loh-EEZ). The legendary 12th-century love letters between Héloïse and Abelard made this name synonymous with intellectual passion. The two accent marks (é, ï) create visual elegance, while the "-oise" ending floats like a sigh. A name for literary souls.
24. Inès
Origin: French form of Spanish Inés
Meaning: "Pure"
Description: A single-syllable sparkler (ee-NESS). The accent grave (è) adds French sophistication to this Iberian import. Fashion designer Inès de la Fressange epitomizes its Parisian chic. Its brevity and crisp "s" ending give it modern punch while maintaining vintage charm.
25. Joséphine
Origin: French feminine of Joseph
Meaning: "God will add"
Description: Imperial grandeur (zho-zeh-FEEN). Empress Joséphine, Napoleon's muse, made this name eternally romantic. The elongated "-ine" ending sweeps like a ballgown's train. Nicknames range from playful "Josie" to elegant "Fifi." A name that balances strength and delicacy perfectly.
26. Léonie
Origin: French feminine of Leon
Meaning: "Lion"
Description: Fierce yet floral (lay-oh-NEE). The accent aigu (é) lifts the first syllable like a lioness raising her head. Late 19th-century Parisian actress Léonie Yahne made it a Belle Époque favorite. Its blend of animalistic power and French grace creates unique appeal.
27. Mireille
Origin: Provençal French
Meaning: "To admire"
Description: Sun-drenched poetry (mee-RAY). The "-eille" ending (pronounced "ay") evokes Southern France's lavender fields. Singer Mireille Mathieu popularized its melodic three-syllable flow. A less common alternative to Mirabelle, brimming with rustic elegance.
28. Noémie
Origin: French form of Naomi
Meaning: "Pleasantness"
Description: Honeyed sweetness (no-eh-MEE). The accent tréma (ï) ensures each vowel shines distinctly. More elaborate than Noémi, it gained fame through actress Noémie Merlant. The name's joyful meaning and fluid rhythm make it endlessly appealing.
29. Océane
Origin: French from Greek Okeanos
Meaning: "Ocean"
Description: A tidal wave of elegance (oh-say-AN). The accent aigu (é) mimics a cresting wave. Popularized in 1980s France, its marine connection feels both timeless and contemporary. The rare "-éane" ending makes it visually striking.
30. Philippine
Origin: French feminine of Philip
Meaning: "Lover of horses"
Description: Aristocratic charm (fee-lee-PEEN). The "-pine" ending rhymes with "queen," giving it regal bearing. Duchess Philippine of Orleans modernized this 18th-century classic. Its length (four syllables) commands attention while nicknames like "Pipa" keep it approachable.
31. Romane
Origin: French feminine of Roman
Meaning: "From Rome"
Description: Artistic wanderlust (ro-MAN). The silent "e" adds French sophistication to this geographic name. Actress Romane Bohringer gives it bohemian cred. A fresher alternative to Romilly, with continental flair.
32. Solène
Origin: French from Latin Solana
Meaning: "Sun"
Description: Solar radiance (so-LEN). The accent grave (è) adds gravity to this luminous name. Breton singer Solène Rigot popularized its ethereal quality. Less common than Solange, it shines with quiet distinction.
33. Thaïs
Origin: Greek via French
Meaning: "Bandage" (historically), now associated with grace
Description: Exotic allure (tah-EES). The diaeresis (ï) makes both vowels distinct. Opera Thaïs by Massenet cemented its artistic prestige. A single-syllable name that packs mysterious elegance.
34. Victoire
Origin: French
Meaning: "Victory"
Description: Triumphant elegance (veek-TWAR). The "-oire" ending (like "armoire") adds gravitas. Fashion designer Victoire de Castellane gives it modern luxury appeal. A bold alternative to Victoria, dripping with Parisian confidence.
35. Yvonne
Origin: French feminine of Yves
Meaning: "Yew tree"
Description: Vintage revival (ee-VON). The double "n" gives it sturdy French roots. Singer Yvonne Printemps made it a Jazz Age darling. Its botanical meaning and strong "v" sound create timeless appeal.
36. Annabelle
Origin: French compound name blending Anna (Hebrew "grace") + Belle (French "beauty")
Meaning: "Graceful beauty" or "lovable grace"
Description: This enchanting name (pronounced ah-na-BEL) perfectly captures France's love of lyrical compound names. The rolling "anna" beginning flows seamlessly into the dulcet "belle" ending, creating a name that sounds like poetry. While popularized internationally by the Edgar Allan Poe poem, the French version carries a sunnier, more romantic sensibility. The double "l" softens into a delicate "y" sound in proper French pronunciation. Currently experiencing a chic vintage revival in Paris, Annabelle offers a more elaborate alternative to Anaïs or Amélie while maintaining effortless elegance. Its floral-adjacent sound makes it perfect for spring babies.
37. Céleste
Origin: Derived from Latin "caelestis" meaning "heavenly"
Meaning: "Of the sky" or "celestial"
Description: More ethereal than the Spanish Celestina (pronounced say-LEST), this French variation floats with Parisian lightness. The accent aigu (é) lifts the first syllable like clouds parting at dawn, while the "-este" ending adds a whisper of celestial grandeur. This name enjoyed aristocratic favor during the Belle Époque and is now reclaimed by modern parents for its astral elegance. Jazz composer Céleste Boursier-Mougenot embodies its artistic soul. The name's spiritual resonance makes it popular among families valuing both cosmic wonder and minimalist French chic.
38. Dominique
Origin: French unisex name from Latin "Dominicus" (belonging to the Lord)
Meaning: "Of God" or "divine"
Description: A rare unisex classic (doh-mee-NEEK) that maintains effortless Parisian sophistication. The "-ique" suffix adds intellectual gravitas, reminiscent of French philosophical tradition. Singer Dominique A brought it modern edge in the 1990s Rive Gauche music scene. Its versatility shines through nicknames: "Dom" for strength, "Mimi" for sweetness, or "Nico" for androgynous appeal. The name beautifully bridges sacred tradition and secular modernity, working equally well for a future artist or academic.
39. Estelle
Origin: French derivation from Latin "stella"
Meaning: "Star"
Description: This celestial charmer (es-TEL) distills stellar magic into two perfect syllables. More refined than the Italian Stella, the French version features a softer "s" and that characteristically elegant silent "e" ending. The name first gleamed in 19th-century Paris salons before Hollywood's Estelle Getty gave it vintage appeal. Contemporary singer Estelle revitalized its luminous quality. Parents adore its astronomical connection and subtle literary vibe (remembered from Dickens' Great Expectations). The name's brevity makes it ideal for pairing with longer middle names like Estelle Marguerite or Estelle Vivienne.
40. Florence
Origin: French place name from Latin "Florentia"
Meaning: "Flourishing" or "prosperous"
Description: Beyond its Italian city associations (pronounced floh-RONSS in French), this name blooms with Parisian sophistication. The nasal "on" sound is quintessentially French, while nurse Florence Nightingale sanctified its healing connotations. The "-rence" ending adds scholarly weight, making it perfect for creative or scientific families. During the Renaissance, French nobility favored this name for its floral undertones and intellectual prestige. Modern parents appreciate its vintage charm and global recognition, with nickname options ranging from girlish "Flo" to elegant "Flossie."
41. Géraldine
Origin: Feminine form of the Germanic Gerald
Meaning: "Spear ruler" or "mighty with a spear"
Description: A regal warrior name (zhay-ral-DEEN) softened by flowing French vowels. The accent aigu (é) transforms the Germanic original into something distinctly Parisian chic. Actress Géraldine Chaplin embodies its artistic strength and bohemian spirit. The name peaked in 1950s France but is now experiencing a revival among parents seeking strong feminine names with vintage flair. Its four syllables dance beautifully in French, with nickname options like "Gigi" for playfulness or "Dine" for sophistication. The name's blend of Teutonic strength and French elegance creates remarkable balance.
42. Henriette
Origin: French feminine diminutive of Henri
Meaning: "Home ruler" or "estate keeper"
Description: This aristocratic gem (on-ree-ET) wraps royal heritage in cozy charm. The "-ette" suffix, so beloved in French, adds delicate femininity to the sturdy Henri. French feminist Henriette Campan modernized its image in the Enlightenment era. The name's vintage quality feels fresh again today, offering a more distinctive alternative to Harriet or Henrietta. Its cadence - with the stress on the final syllable - gives it a particularly French musicality. Nicknames like "Ettie" or "Riette" make it approachable for a child, while the full form carries gravitas for adulthood.
43. Isabeau
Origin: Medieval French variant of Isabelle
Meaning: "God is my oath"
Description: A fairytale twist (ee-za-BOH) that sounds like it stepped from a Provençal tapestry. The "-beau" ending (meaning "beautiful") enhances its romantic medieval charm. Queen Isabeau of Bavaria, known for her political acumen, gives the name historical prestige. More unusual than Isabel but equally melodic, Isabeau offers poetic distinction. The name's cadence - with the elongated "beau" floating at the end - creates a dreamy, lyrical quality perfect for parents seeking something enchantingly old-world yet uncommon today.
44. Juliette
Origin: French elaboration of Julie/Julia
Meaning: "Youthful" or "downy-bearded"
Description: Shakespearean passion (zhoo-lee-ET) refined by Parisian elegance. The "-ette" suffix sparkles like champagne bubbles, elevating the classic Julie. Actress Juliette Binoche epitomizes its artistic soul and intelligent warmth. In France, the name maintains romantic sophistication without sounding clichéd. The double "t" gives it crisp definition, while the fluid vowels keep it feminine. A perfect choice for parents who adore literary names but want something more distinctive than the English Juliet. Nicknames range from playful "Juju" to elegant "Ettie."
45. Lorraine
Origin: French regional name from the medieval kingdom of Lotharingia
Meaning: "From the kingdom of Lothar"
Description: A geographical beauty (loh-REN) evoking vineyard-clad hills and Gothic cathedrals. The silent "e" adds French sophistication to this place name, distinguishing it from the English pronunciation. WWII heroine Joan of Lorraine gave it historical resonance. The "-raine" ending flows like the Meuse River through its namesake region. Parents today appreciate its vintage charm and subtle strength, with nickname options like "Lora" or "Rainey." The name's blend of pastoral beauty and historical weight makes it enduringly appealing.
46. Maëlle
Origin: Breton French, feminine form of Maël
Meaning: "Prince" or "chieftain"
Description: Celtic strength (mah-EL) filtered through French elegance. The tréma (ë) ensures proper pronunciation of this unisex-leaning name. Singer Maëlle brought it contemporary musicality in the 2000s. The name's Breton roots connect it to Brittany's rugged coasts and Arthurian legends, offering a nature-inspired choice with mythic undertones. Its simplicity - just two syllables - belies its powerful meaning, making it ideal for parents seeking something short but substantial. The unusual "ë" adds distinctive visual appeal.
47. Nathalie
Origin: French form of Latin Natalia
Meaning: "Christmas Day" or "birth"
Description: A festive sparkler (na-ta-LEE) that shines year-round. The "-th-" spelling adds Parisian distinction to the Natalia family. Actress Nathalie Baye gives it cinematic glamour, while its holiday connections lend inherent joy. The name's three syllables dance lightly, with the stress on the final "lie" creating a cheerful uplift. Popular in 1970s France, it's now revisited by parents appreciating its vintage charm. The name works beautifully across languages while maintaining its essential French character. Nicknames like "Nat" or "Thalie" offer versatility.
48. Odette
Origin: French feminine diminutive of Germanic Otto
Meaning: "Wealth" or "fortune"
Description: Swan-like grace (oh-DET) floating through French history. The "-ette" suffix gives this name its delicate French charm, most famously borne by the tragic heroine of Swan Lake. French Resistance fighter Odette Sansom later transformed its image into one of wartime courage. The name's simplicity - just five letters - contains multitudes, from ballet elegance to quiet strength. Currently enjoying a revival among parents seeking vintage names with artistic resonance, Odette pairs beautifully with longer middle names like Odette Camille or Odette Seraphine.
49. Pauline
Origin: French feminine form of Paul
Meaning: "Small" or "humble"
Description: Petite perfection (poh-LEEN) with intellectual pedigree. The "-ine" ending elongates the name musically, distinguishing it from the English Paulina. Feminist philosopher Pauline Léglise modernized this ancient name in the 20th century. The name's simplicity and quiet strength make it ideal for scholarly families - it's both understated and substantial. Popular during France's Third Republic, it's now rediscovered by parents seeking vintage charm without frills. The name's connection to Saint Paul gives it subtle spiritual depth while remaining secular-friendly.
50. Vivienne
Origin: French elaboration of Latin Vivianus
Meaning: "Alive" or "lively"
Description: Parisian joie de vivre (vee-VYEN) distilled into three syllables. The doubled "n" adds rhythmic emphasis, while designer Vivienne Westwood infused it with punk sophistication. More elaborate than Vivian, this spelling emphasizes its French origins through the "-enne" ending. The name pulses with energy while maintaining elegance - it's equally suited to a future artist or CEO. Its vintage glamour (think Vivienne Leigh) feels freshly contemporary today. The name's inherent vitality makes it perfect for spirited children, with nickname options ranging from "Vivi" to "Vienne."
