French Girl Names
By Dixie Legare – August 28, 2024
Are you looking for the perfect French name for your baby girl? Whether you cherish French heritage or simply love names with a certain charm, there’s something here for you.
Dive into a curated list of 71 names, ideal for either a first or middle name.
Categorized into popular, unique, cute, pretty, beautiful, and old-fashioned, this guide offers a variety of choices.
Most Popular French Girl Names
Eléa
Eléa is a modern twist on the traditional name Eleanor. This shorter version feels fresh and contemporary.
Variations you might see include Elea, Eleah, Elléa, Elëa, Élea, and Éléa.
Lya
Lya is a charming variation of Leas and Leah, which mean “weary” in Hebrew. Despite its meaning, the name has a melodic quality to it.
You may encounter alternate spellings like Lia, Liah, Lyah, Lïa, and Liia.
Elyna
Elyna is a modern take on Elena, deriving from the Greek name Helen, meaning “torch.” Helen’s story is famous in Greek mythology, especially in relation to the Trojan War.
Popular alternatives include Elina, Ellina, Élina, and Élyna.
Anna
Anna is a timeless name found in many languages. It has biblical roots and comes from the original name Hannah. The spelling was adapted in the Middle Ages to the more familiar Anna.
Lili
Lili is a short form of Elisabeth or Elizabeth and can also refer to the flower lily.
Other popular spellings are Lilli, Lillie, Lilly, Lily, and Lyli.
Noémie
Noémie is the French version of Naomi, meaning “pleasantness” in Hebrew.
It’s a sweet name with alternative spellings like Noemi.
Sophia
Sophia has Greek origins and means “wisdom.” It’s been a popular name among royalty and can also be spelled Sofia.
In France, Sophie was once more common, but Sophia has taken the lead.
Julia
Julia is the feminine form of the Roman name Julius. Common since the 18th century, it has become more popular than its variant Julie.
A cute nickname for Julia is Juliette.
Louise
Louise is the feminine version of Louis, the name of 18 French kings. After the French Revolution, Louis dropped in popularity, but Louise remains charmingly vintage.
Ella
Ella is often seen as a diminutive of Eleanor. It has ties to the German girl’s name Alia, giving it a timeless appeal.
Éléanor
Éléanor is the French spelling of Eleanor, which originates from the Old French name Alienòr.
A notable historical figure with this name was Eleanor of Aquitaine.
Charlotte
Charlotte is the feminine form of Charles, rooted in the German name Karl, meaning “man.”
It was quite popular in France and England in the 20th century and has recently gained favor in the United States.
Unique French Girl Names
Amélie
Amélie means “hardworking.” It’s a charming choice with a classic feel.
Elodie
Elodie means “foreign riches.” It’s known for its melodic and soft sound.
Lilou
Lilou is a playful name that blends the names Lily and Louise. It’s trendy and sweet.
Manon
Manon is a form of Madeline, meaning “of Magdala.” It’s a simple yet elegant name.
Fleur
Fleur means “flower.” It’s perfect for parents seeking a nature-inspired name.
Solène
Solène means “dignified” or “solemn.” It has a sophisticated and unique feel.
Maëlle
Maëlle means “chief” or “princess.” It’s a name with a strong and graceful presence.
Cute and Pretty French Girl Names
Amélie
Meaning “hardworking,” Amélie brings charm and grace. Famous from the movie, it’s a beloved classic.
Camille
A timeless name meaning “young ceremonial attendant,” Camille exudes simplicity and elegance.
Elodie
This name means “foreign riches” and has a soft, musical sound that makes it enchanting.
Juliette
A name meaning “youthful,” Juliette is associated with romance and beauty.
Léa
Léa means “weary,” yet it carries a light and gentle aura, making it very appealing.
Margaux
A variation of Margot, Margaux means “pearl.” It’s sophisticated and classy.
Fleur
Meaning “flower,” Fleur is a simple yet beautiful name that evokes imagery of blooming gardens.
Aveline
With its meaning of “hazelnut,” Aveline is a unique and sweet choice.
Coralie
This name, meaning “coral,” brings to mind the beauty of the sea and has a fresh feel.
Maëlle
Meaning “chief or princess,” Maëlle is a strong yet soft-sounding name.
Beautiful French Girl Names
Élodie
Élodie means “foreign riches” and is a charming name often associated with elegance and grace.
Chloé
Chloé stands for “blooming” or “fertility.” It’s a popular name that exudes freshness and beauty.
Amélie
Amélie translates to “hardworking.” It’s a name that carries both sweetness and strength.
Léa
Léa means “weary” and is a simple yet timeless name that remains popular for its classic appeal.
Margaux
Margaux is the French form of Margaret, meaning “pearl.” It gives a sense of sophistication and charm.
Old-Fashioned French Girl Names
Claire
Claire is a name that means “clear” or “bright.” It has a simple elegance and has been popular for many years.
Marie
Marie is timeless and classic. It means “bitter” but is often associated with qualities like purity and connection to the Virgin Mary.
Isabelle
Isabelle, meaning “God is my oath,” has a regal and sophisticated feel. It’s a variant of Elizabeth and has been used in royal circles.
Madeleine
Madeleine is both sweet and classy. The name means “woman from Magdala” and is often linked to the famous French pastry, the madeleine.
Genevieve
Genevieve is a historic name that means “tribe woman.” Its timeless charm makes it a favorite for those seeking something classic.
Colette
Colette is a lively name that means “victory of the people.” It’s chic and has a playful yet strong character.
Cecile
Cecile, which means “blind,” has a melodic sound. It is related to the name Cecilia and has historical roots in French culture.