100 Unique French Boy Names: With Meanings

Alain

Alain is the French variant of Alan. Unlike its English alternative, Alain is not common but is still familiar. Alain is an exotic name that is also easy to pronounce in many languages, unlike other French boy names.

Alexandre

Alexandre is a strong yet elegant French male name. As a variation of Alexander, Alexandre is a familiar choice that is adored in any culture or country.

Alphonse

Alphonse is a unique name similar to more well-known alternatives like Alphonso and Alonzo. This rugged, firm-sounding name is a strong choice for those looking into French names for boys.

Andre

Andre is one French name that has not been met with an Anglicized alternative. Familiar and friendly, Andre is the popular choice in English and French-speaking families alike. Cute nicknames like Dre add a modern twist to Andre.

Antoine

Antoine was once quite popular in the United States but ultimately saw a steep decline in popularity. Despite this, its popularity in the early 1900s makes it a classic choice for those looking to breathe some new life into the name Antoine.

Archer

Despite its long history on the charts, Archer sounds like the modern and trendy name it has become. Spunky nicknames like Archie add even more appeal to Archer. It is not only the United States that has shown growing love for Archer! England, France, and Australia have all seen this name increase in popularity.

Arthur

Arthur is a bright and strong boy name. Since 1880, Arthur has held a strong place in the hearts of countries all across the globe. America, France, Ireland, and England have shown Arthur a lot of love throughout the centuries. Arthur has numerous namesakes. From royalty to tennis players, Arthur is a name that could suit a fashionable young boy.

Astor

Astor is a spin on the trend that is taking surnames and using them as first names. Astor is a common surname, but it is slowly making its position as a first name as well. Astor is a unique choice with a modern feel.

Bastien

Bastien is the gorgeous French variation of Sebastian, which originates from the Greek word Sebastos. This was a title of great honor bestowed on an emperor in Ancient Greece, similar to the Roman emperor’s title of Augustus. Sebastia or Sivas is a city in central Turkey. If you find the ancient culture fascinating, perhaps Bastien could be a beautiful, unique name for your new son.

Beau

Beau strikes a balance between French influence and Southern charm. In particular, France and the southern portion of the United States have helped push this name to the top of the popularity charts. Beau is a one-syllable name that packs a lot of beauty into four letters.

Benoit

Benoit is a name that has a luxurious French sound to it. While it may be difficult to pronounce at first, Benoit is an elegant name. Simply shortening it to Ben when needed can solve the issue of mispronunciation.

Bruce

All over the world, the name Bruce has seen much fame. Its presence seems to be evergreen, even when it dips in popularity. Since the 14th century, this name has been making waves. Bruce was at one point so popular in Australia, it became a term used to describe any Australian man.

Bryce

Bryce is a modern, fresh choice. If your baby boy has freckles, this name would be especially sweet! Bryce Canyon in Utah is another notable mention of this name.

Bryson

Bryson is a sporty and strong boy name that continues to climb the popularity charts in several countries. Bryson could be a great choice if you are looking for a boy name that is sure to be a hit now and for decades to come.

Calvin

Calvin is a fashionable, upscale-sounding name that has been around since the 17th century. French Protestant reformer John Calvin brought this name into the spotlight when his work became the foundation of Calvinism. From then on, Calvin was used as both a first name and surname. With a cute nickname like Cal at the ready, Calvin could fit your baby boy at any age.

Cash

Cash is an incredibly cool baby boy name trending in America, France, and England. This trendy favorite is familiar, easy to pronounce, and a bit edgy.

Chandler

Chandler is a masculine French name, which has only been around since the 1960s, making it an attractive modern choice. Chandler has a youthful radiance, unlike other classic French male names. Chandler as a surname, on the other hand, is quite common and helps keep Chandler as a first name familiar and friendly.

Charles

Charles is used in every corner of the world. Royalty in England, France, Spain, and more. This name is regal but usable. Cute nicknames like Chuck and Charlie add some youthfulness to this name. No matter where you are, Charles is a name that will be well recognized.

Chauncy

As a name that has been unranked since the 1800s, Chauncy is simultaneously old-fashioned and unique. Chauncy is a name that sounds and looks very fashionable.

Claude

Claude has had lengthy popularity in both America and France. This is a short but classic French name. In France, this name is used as a unisex name, however, it is more often used as a boy’s name.

Corentin

Corentin is a French saint’s name that goes virtually unused in the United States. Corentin was a unique French saint most well-known for his enchanted fish that regenerated itself daily to keep visitors fed. With a name like Corentin, it could be easily modernized with a cool nickname, like Corey.

Damien

Damien is the French spelling of the more American Damian. If you are a fan of this name but want to honor its French roots specifically, opt for the “-en” spelling. Both variations of Damien are popular in America, Ireland, France, and England.

Dash

Dash is a modern diminutive of the name Dashielle which stems from the French “de Chiel.” Dash is a fresh and light baby boy name that conjures images of a lively, energetic little boy. The name Dash is modern and cool, but it is sure to age well along with your boy. You may recognize this name from the movie The Incredibles. 

Dorian

Dorian is a Greek name that has become a world favorite. Dorian is derived from the Greek word “doron,” which means “gift.” Dorians were also members of an ancient Greek tribe.

Emile

Emile is the masculine spin on the extremely popular Emily and Emma. However, Emile hasn’t seen the same level of popularity as its female counterparts. Emile is an exotic and elegant French name.

Etienne

Etienne is the French form of Steven/Stephen. Etienne is a fashionable alternative to this classic English name. If you are looking to honor a Steve in your life but want something with French roots and an elegant sound, Etienne could check all your boxes!

Fabien

Fabien is a Latin boy name that is popular in countries like Italy, France, Chile, and Poland. Since the 16th century, Fabien has been popping in and out of the U.S. charts, making for a familiar and classic choice.

Falcon

Falcon is a new and modern name that radiates power, just like falcons themselves. This name is gaining traction and is sure to become a favorite. If you are looking for something that is unique but familiar, Falcon is a fantastic choice.

Florian

Florian is a beautiful Latin name that serves as the masculine form of Flora and Florence. The name Florian has a delicate, exotic sound. While it may be a bit vintage, Florian has a timeless elegance that will ensure it never goes out of style.

Francis

Francis is a classic name with a rich history. There are several ties to this name and prominent religious figures, authors, actors, and other influential people. Cute nicknames like Frankie breathe some youthfulness back into this vintage boy’s name.

Gabriel

Gabriel is a beautiful name for parents wanting a more versatile boy name. It originates from the Hebrew and Arabic boy’s name Gaḇrīʾēl, who features in the Torah (Hebrew Bible) as the archangel of God. Gabriel could be a great name for that little hero about to enter your midst.

Gage

Since 1989, Gage has been riding a wave of popularity. It has been holding on to a spot in the U.S. Top 500 for quite some time. Gage is a popular choice for trendy parents who appreciate the short-and-sweet sound it offers. Gage is also a one-syllable name that is a bit edgy.

Gaston

Gaston may immediately remind you of the famed Disney villain from Beauty and the Beast. This association helps aid Gaston’s manly and strong image. While this name goes virtually unused stateside, the French have adored this name for centuries and made it a beloved classic.

Gentry

Gentry is an old-fashioned name loved by the French and English. Gentry is a signal of high social status. It is fairly uncommon today but serves as a strong vintage name choice.

Grainger

Grainger is a French boy name that is more commonly seen as a surname. As the trend of using last names as first names continues to grow, you can expect to see more Grainger’s around. If you are looking for a trendy name that is still unique, Grainger provides the perfect balance.

Hamelin

Hamelin can also mean “little home-lover” in Old German. You may also know of the famous legend, the Pied Piper of Hamelin, who lured the rats of Hamelin out of the German town. This delightful classic could be a stunning way to show your hopes for a boy who will always treasure his home.

Henri

Henri has certainly stood the test of time, originating from the Old Frankish name Haimariks, with “haima” meaning “home” and “rik” meaning “ruler.” Old variations, such as Heimerich and Hemirih, are recorded as far back as the 8th century. Many famous people throughout history have carried this name, making it quite the keeper!

Hervé

Hervé originates from an Old Breton name Huiarnviu, with Breton being a Celtic language spoken in Brittany, France. More well-known variations of Hervé include the popular English name Harvey or Hervey. This delightful name, steeped in traditional charm, may yet surprise us as a new favorite among expecting parents. In Christian circles, June 17 is its traditional name day.

Hugo

Hugo could certainly be a keeper if you’re looking for a trendy name, with it considered one of the most popular boy names throughout Europe. Its most common traditional name day is April 1, although this does vary for each European country. Hugo has been adapted into many lovely variations, such as Hugh in English, Huig in Dutch, Huw in Welsh, and Ugo in Italian.

Ives

Ives is derived from the French names Ivo and Yves. This catchy name can be used as both a first name or surname. If you love nature, perhaps the meaning of Ives will inspire you, as yew is known for its many medicinal properties, such as for treating tonsillitis, epilepsy, rheumatism, and urinary infections. But as many know, it is known for being highly poisonous!

Jacques

Jacques is the French variation of James, ultimately derived from the Hebrew boy’s name Jacob or Yaakov. Other meanings of Jacques include “holder of the heel” or “may God protect.” You may find yourself attracted to its delightful nickname version, Jacky, while the sweet feminine version is Jacqueline.

Jean-André

Jean-André is a beloved traditional name for French boys and a stunning double-barrel name, if that’s what you’re after! Using hyphenated names such as this is super popular in France. André is the French and Portuguese version of Andrew, which means “manly, strong or brave.” Together with Jean, this stunning name could certainly keep your new boy inspired and full of purpose.

Jean-Claude

Another delightful hyphenated French name for that shortlist of yours! Claude is a fairly common French name in its own right, derived from the Latin name Claudius, meaning “limping” or “stuttering.” While quite an unusual meaning, if combined with Jean, it could undoubtedly make a sweet name for a young boy.

Jenner

Jenner originates from the Old French name Engineor, which is related to the Latin word “ingeniator,” meaning “to create or contrive.” You may even recognize here where we get our word engineer from? While Jenner is more commonly used as a surname, it is also used as a first name. Its unique charm and catchy meaning may have a way of capturing anyone’s attention.

 Jules

Jules is the French variation of the Latin name Julius. In Greek, Jules means “downy-bearded” or “covered with soft, fine hair.” If looking at the term “downy,” you may also appreciate its reference to someone who is “sharp-witted.” Jules sounds perfect for parents who wish to raise an independent and confident young man.

Kurtis

Kurtis is not very common among French boy names, making it quite the little keeper if you’re looking for a unique name. It is derived from the Old French word “corteis” or “curteis,” meaning “courteous or polite” in English.

Laurent

Laurent is usually heard in French-speaking countries. It originates from the Roman surname Laurenius, referring to people from an ancient Roman city, Latium. Located between Ostia and Lavinium, Latium is considered the first capital city of Italy. Other sources suggest Laurent comes from the Old Greek word “lavrenti,” meaning “the bright one.”

Leó

Leó comes from the Greek word λέων for “lion.” A stunning way to portray true masculinity and strength. Many famous people have carried this name throughout history, from royalty, saints, and scientists to politicians, entertainers, and athletes.

Loïc

The exact origin of Loïc is a little uncertain. Some suggest it comes from the Breton name Laou or Louis. While others suggest it originates from the German boy name Ludwig meaning “famous battle.” In this case, it consists of the elements “hlud” meaning “famous” and “wig” for “war or battle.” The unique diminutive form is Lou.

Lorin

Lorin is another version of the Latin name Loren, ultimately taken from Laurence. This delightful name refers to the bay or laurel tree, which is indigenous to the Mediterranean and commonly used to add extra flavor to stews, soups, braises, and pâtés. In Greco-Roman tradition, the laurel tree is known for representing victory, honor, and fame.

Louis

Louis is a beautiful classic among French boy names, derived from the Old Frankish name Chlodowig or Clovis. You may already know of the sweet English version, Lewis. Louis could make a majestic name for your very own little prince, who is bound to achieve wonderful things throughout his life.

Lowell

Lowell is derived from the Norman French word “lu,” meaning “wolf.” It was typically used as a surname and has since been used as a first name in French-speaking countries.

Lucas

Here’s a name you won’t get tired of saying! Lucas is derived from the Latin verb “lucere,” meaning “to shine.” The most common English variation is Luke, and the more traditional French version is Lyka. Lucas could perfectly portray the new ray of light and life about to enter your world.

Lyle

Lyle is heard as both a surname and first name today. It is derived from the Anglo-Norman name “De L’isle,” which means “from the isle.” If you happen to love the idea of an exotic island escape, perhaps Lyle is one for the shortlist?

Mael

Mael originates from an old Celtic word meaning “chieftain.” Others suggest it is of Breton origin, a variation of Maël. This traditional name was popularized through the 5th-century saint, Maël, who was known for living as a hermit in Wales.

Marcel

Marcel is a variation of the Latin name Marcellus, inspired by Mars, the Roman god of war. The month of March is named after Mars, as most of his festivals were held during this month. You’ll even come across this fashionable name in women’s hairstyles from the 1920s, known as Marcelling. Invented by Marcel Grateau, this was the iconic wavy hair pattern you would often see during that period.

Marc-André

Marc-André is a stunning compound name, offering loads of French charm, mostly heard among French Canadians. Marc is derived from Marcus, an ancient Roman male name meaning “dedicated to Mars.” While André is the French variation of Andrew, meaning “manly, strong and brave.”

Matisse

Matisse is the French and German version of the Hebrew name Matthew. While commonly used as a surname in France, it has since become a more popular first name in French-speaking countries. It was popularized as a first name through the famous French artist Henri Matisse. Together with Pablo Picasso, Matisse was known for making significant developments in sculpture and painting into the 20th century.

Matthieu

Matthieu is the French version of Matthew, derived from the Hebrew name Mattityahu. If broken down, “mattan” means “gift,” and “yah” refers to God. Matthew has been in use from ancient history, offering a wide array of variations across different cultures. You may also love the nicknames it offers, such as Matt, Mattie, and Matty.

Maurice

Maurice is a gorgeous name for a boy is derived from the Latin name Mauritius. It was commonly used in the Roman Empire, referring to “one from Mauritania” or the Moors. In the Middle Ages, the Moors were known as Arabs, North Africans, and European Muslims. Maurice was also popularized through Saint Maurice, a 3rd Century Egyptian military leader who ruled the Theban Legion of Rome.

Montel

Montel comes from the Old French word “montell,” meaning “little hill.” While little is known regarding the origin of Montel, it is more frequently used as a first name throughout Northern Europe.

Napoléon

Napoléon is the French variation of the Old Italian boy’s name Napoleone. The exact origin is uncertain, but some say it comes from the German name Nibelungen meaning “sons of mist.” In German mythology, it would refer to those who protected a hoard of treasure. Napoléon could also be associated with the Italian city Naples or Napoli.

Nicolas

Nicolas, also spelled Nicolás, has remained a beloved favorite in France and many French-speaking countries. It’s common English version, Nicholas has also stayed at the top of its game over many years. St . Nicholas of Myra is known for inspiring the name, considered the protector of seafarers.

Olivier

Olivier is the beautiful French and Dutch variation of the ancient Germanic name Alfher or the Old Norse name Olaf. A fascinating bearer of the name was Olivier Levasseur- a 16th-century French pirate nicknamed “The Buzzard.” He apparently hid the largest treasure in pirate history, worth £1 billion, and left a cryptogram to indicate its location.

Pascal

Pascal is a common first name and surname in French-speaking countries, including Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands. You will come across many variations of the name, such as Pasquale in Italian and Pascoal in Portuguese. Derived from the Latin word “paschalis” or “pashalis” which means “relating to Easter,” with “pascha” meaning “Easter.”

Philippe

Philippe is the delightful French form of Philip, which comes from the Greek name, Philippos, meaning “friend of horses.” In this case, “philos” means “friend or lover,” while “hippos” means “horses.” Many stunning variations have been adapted in many languages, and even surnames have evolved from it, such as Philips and Phelps. The feminine versions of Philippine and Philippa are equally as beautiful.

Pierre

Pierre is the beautiful French version of Peter, derived from the Greek word “petros” for “rock.” This delightful name has been popular throughout the centuries, with a range of different spellings across the world. It belonged to several saints, including some royalty and one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ, Saint Peter.

Rainier

Rainier is the French version of the German name Rainer or Rayner. It consists of the elements “ragin” meaning “advice” and “hari or heri” meaning “army.” The Italian version is Raniero, while the Dutch version is Reinier. This could certainly be a cool name for parents who are looking for something a little trendy and versatile across different countries.

Raphaël

Raphaël has remained a very popular name among French boy names. It originates from the Hebrew words “rafa” meaning “to heal” and “el,” referring to God. This majestic name has captured the hearts of parents for many years, with it first appearing in an ancient letter from Prince Lachish from Israel in 1350 BC.

Renard

Renard is the French version of Reynard, which comes from the Germanic name Raginhard. Here “ragin” means “advice,” while “hard” means “brave or hardy.” In France, it is more commonly used as a surname, however, in recent years, it has also been used as a first name.

René

René is the French form of Renatus, an old Latin name, with “natus” meaning “born.” René contained a strong spiritual meaning of being born again through baptism and through the Holy Spirit and was thus adopted by many early Christians throughout the Roman empire. Today René is usually heard in France, Germany, and Spain. Its sweet feminine version is Renée.

Roland

Roland originates from Frankish, which was a West Germanic language spoken between the 4th and 8th centuries. Roland was popularized through a semi-legendary war hero, who served under Charlemagne, the King of the Franks. His stories of triumph were told in the Song of Roland. You may also know of the charming Italian version, Orlando, and the Portuguese and Spanish version, Rolando. Rolly is the common nickname, which is way too sweet to pass by!

Russell

Russell originates from the Old Norse word “rossel,” meaning “red-haired” or “red-skinned.” It was first used as a surname and has since been adapted into quite a common first name for boys across many countries. Perhaps a strong choice for parents who want to encourage a fiery and determined spirit in the life of their boy.

Sébastien

Sébastien is rooted in the Latin name Sebastianus, which referred to various place names in antiquity. Such as the town Sebaste in ancient Phrygia, now in Turkey. Sebaste was also the Greek equivalent of the Latin word Augusta, which bestowed honor and respect on a Roman emperor.

Serge

Serge is the French form of Sergius, which was an ancient Roman family name. It belonged to Saint Sergius, a 4th-century Roman officer, who was killed for his faith along with his companion Bacchus in Syria. They are now considered the patron saints of Christian desert nomads. Serge also offers a lovely feminine version, Sergine.

Simon

French speakers are notorious for adapting other names into French culture, and Simon is a name worth noting! Originating from Hebrew, Šimʻôn or Simeon means “listen or hearing,” while it also comes from the Greek word for “flat-nosed.” Simon has seen many stunning variations across different languages. It belongs to Simon the Zealot, a passionate apostle of Jesus Christ, including the legendary Simon the Shoemaker, a friend of Socrates.

Sumner

Sumner is usually regarded as a British boy name, however, it has been adopted by French-speaking families over the years. You may often come across it as a more common surname, but it certainly makes a stunning and unique first name as well.

Théodore

Théodore is the charming French version of Theodore, an ancient Greek name belonging to many inspiring historical figures. In Greek, “theós” means “God” while “dṓron” means “gift.” Notable people to first popularize the name include Theodorus of Samos, a 6th-century Greek sculptor and architect, and Theodorus of Byzantium, a 5th-century philosophical teacher, and orator.

Timéo

Timéo is the French form of Timeo, which comes from the ancient Greek name Timaios (Τίμαιος), meaning “to honor.” This ancient name features in one of Plato’s dialogues, so if you choose it, you’ll be sure that your boy will share his name with some inspiring figures.

Timothée

Timothée is the beautiful French variation of Timotheos, an old Greek boy name, which also inspired the popular English name Timothy. What a gorgeous name for parents who hope to honor their faith by naming their son Timothée. Its sweet nickname Tim or Timo is also too charming to pass by.

Travis

Travis comes from the Norman or Old French word “traverser,” meaning “to cross.” In ancient times a Travers would describe people who lived near bridges or other crossings, known for collecting tolls. Over time, it soon became quite a popular first name that begins with T, among expecting parents.

Tyson

• Origin: Old French, English
• Meaning: High-spirited
• Pronunciation: tie-son
• Variations: Tiesen, Tysen
• Namesakes: Tyson Chandler, an American professional basketball player and coach. Tyson Fury, a British professional boxer and two-time world heavyweight champion.
• Popularity: Tyson is fairly common in France and other parts of Europe. In the USA, it ranked a pretty popular rate of #372 in 2020.
• Description: Tyson comes from the Old French word “tison,” meaning “firebrand.” Others suggest it originates from Dyson, derived from the Greek word “dios,” meaning “of Zeus.” Tyson is also commonly used as an English surname.

Ulysse

Ulysse is the French variation of Odysseus, a Greek name inspired by the legendary hero of the Trojan war. It may sound a little different and odd in meaning, but it sure has a way of grabbing your attention!

Xavier

Xavier is quite the classic, derived from the Basque place name Etxeberria, or better known as Javier. This is famously known as the castle of Javier or Xavier in northern Spain and as the birthplace of Saint Francis Xavier. He was one of the first seven Jesuits from the early 1500s to take vows of poverty and chastity.

Yves

Yves is the Medieval French version of Ivo, which comes from the Germanic element “iv” meaning “yew.” The yew is a genus of trees or shrubs with flat, long dark-green leaves, reddish bark, and red berries. Its wood was traditionally used for making longbows due to its springy qualities. Then in recent years, certain yew species have been used as a chemotherapeutic drug for treating breast and lung cancer.

Zacharie

Zacharie is the charming French version of Zechariah, derived from the traditional Hebrew name Zekharyah. If broken up, “zakhar” means “to remember,” while “yah” refers to Yahweh, the name for God. A lovely name offering loads of French character, which can be shortened to Zach or Zak.