130 French Names for Boys and Their Meanings

Be it a baby girl or a boy child, the expectant mother is always on tenterhooks, wondering and scouring name barriers for names that are French, sound exotic, mean the baby is born in a particular month, named after her favourite colour, or a personality trait that she wants the baby to be blessed with. It is not uncommon to name the baby after places, flowers or gemstones, too! And yes, most Frenchmen will have a first name, middle name and family name. So, French mothers actually have to find a balanced name by choosing two names for one precious baby boy. Let us help with a list of French boy names.

List of French Baby Boy Names With Meanings

Globally, French first-male names are quite the rage! Every mother wishes for her son’s name to be lucky and unique. Why not explore such typical French names and tweak them to suit your parameters? Based on your family name, match the chosen names and explore the meaning, rhyme, and rhythm to ensure you find one that suits your baby best. After all, it will define his personality and last a lifetime. We hope you find a suitable name for your little son from this list of popular French names boy.

Unique French Boy Names 

Let us make a start by enumerating some typical but unique French boy names that start with A and then run through the alphabet list to help you find and explore possibilities of finding that perfect name for your handsome baby boy. Some unique French names to name your baby boy can be Warrane (the game warden), Bailey (the fortification or bailiff), Wyatt or Wiatt (the guide), Bellamy (the handsome buddy), Bernard (the brave and bear-like), Bell (handsome), Bruce from Brys, Corbett (raven-haired), etc., are all a good choice among unique French boy names.

1. Andie

The name means ‘courageous and valiant’. Very masculine! Can also be spelt Andy and a short form of Andrew.

2. Arman

Yes, it sounds Indian and is typically French. It means ‘of the army’. In Hindi it means ‘a long-awaited wish’.

3. Abrielle

Abrielle is a gorgeous name that combines the grace of Gabrielle with the spunkiness of Ariel. It has both French and Italian uses, making it a beautiful, European choice.

4. Adélard

Adélard is a fantabulous French name for boys, commonly used in the French-Canadian province of Quebec. The name means ‘brave’ and ‘noble’.

5. Barry

This name means ‘a marksman or a spear thrower’ and is as traditional as it gets.

6. Baron/Byron

Want your son to have a title? Choose the sign of nobility. Many variants are available like the Indian Bhyron.

7. Beau

Short and beautiful, it would suit a handsome debonair man with inward beauty. Names like Beaufort, Beauvais, Beaumont, and Beaugard are common compounding of names in France.

8. Bérenger

This elegant French name is pronounced BEH-RAHN-ZHEH. With old Germanic roots, the name has been used by many royalties in the past.

9. Carl

Modern? No, the name is traditional and means manly and strong. Carlo is another name to try.

10. Carlos

This name is popular and indicates a strong and valiant manly young man.

11. Côme

Pronounced KOM, this crispy French is derived from the Greek and Latin names Cosmas. The meaning of the name is ‘decency’.

12. Desi

The name is all about your cravings and desire to have a son. In Hindi, it means ‘native to the nation’.

13. Denver

No, the name is not American. It is French and means ‘from the Anvers’!

14. Desire

Yes! This is an English word with French roots and makes a wonderful unisex name for a boy who grows up desired!

15. Dieudonné

Pronounced DYUU-DAW-NEH, Dieudonné is an elegant name meaning ‘given by God’.

16. Ed

There are many English persons named Ed or variants of the name like Edwards. However, the French meaning is ‘a warrior who is always prosperous’.

17. Émeric

Pronounced EHM-REEK, this two-syllable name comes from the German name Emmerich. It means ‘whole ruler’.

18. Fabien

Typically French, and means ‘a bean grower’ or ‘farmer’.

19. Gaultier

A rare variant of Gauthier or Gautier, the name means ‘ruler of the army’.

20. Gerard

The name means ‘to have excellent spearmanship’ and refers to the strong spear.

21. Germain

Typically, in French, it means ‘from Germany’ or ‘an ally worthy friend’.

22. Herbert

This name is popular and means ‘the famous warrior of the times’.

23. Hamilton

The name is used by the car racer Lewis Hamilton and means ‘from the mountain regions’.

24. Honoré

This beautiful-sounding French boy’s name means ‘honour’. Honoré de Balzac, the French writer, is one popular name-bearer.

25. Jacques

The French meaning of this name is ‘an excellent supplanter of plans’.

26. Jeanne

The name is unisex but more preferred for baby boys. It means ‘God has been merciful to me. Try Jean as another variant.

27. Karl

A hugely popular name all over Europe and meaning ‘manly’ or ‘attractive and masculine’.

28. Lance

This name is from the old ages and means ‘one who wields the Lance’.

29. Marshall

The English word seems to have originated here. The name means ‘the horses and horse force keeper’.

30. Maurice

The French description of the dark Moors. Interesting variants are Maurizio, Mauricio, and Maury.

31. Maxime

Taken from the Latin name Maximus, the name means ‘greatest’. This name is highly popular in the French-Canadian province of Quebec.

32. Napolean

The name means ‘he who originated from Naples’ and is inspired by the famous Napoleon Bonaparte himself!

33. Raimond

This name is meaningful and implies ‘the man is one who is guarded and wise too’.

Cute French Names for Boys

All babies are cute, and there is no doubt that the name needs to be cute! Moms-to-be love the fact that the nicknames are part of the first name when naming their newborn son. It need not be too long, especially when your family name is long and a compound word. Ex: Yves St Laurent. Again, you can also pick out the middle name so it rhymes and is not too long. Ex: Fabrice Andre Grolaire. Yes, there are no common names when it comes to naming your baby, right? Your baby is unique and special, too. So, let us explore some of those cute and typical French baby boy names, shall we?

1. Alain

A variant of the English name Alan, this name has varied meanings, including ‘handsome’ and ‘little rock’.

2. Ancel

This name has multiple meanings. It could be ‘a parcel of land or the Knight’s attendant’.

3. Barnabé

This is the French version of the Aramaic name Barnabas, which means ‘son of the prophet’.

4. Blais

Also with variations like Blaize and Blaise, it means ‘to stutter or lisp when speaking’.

5. Bo

The unisex name means ‘beautiful character and handsome’. It can also be used as the nickname for Bogart which means ‘of bow’s strength’ and ‘Bono or Boone which mean good’.

6. Brett

This name in French means ‘from Britanny’ and can also be used as Bret.

7. Cédric

The name is related to the English name Cedric and is very popular worldwide.

8. Chappel

This name means ‘from the precincts of the chapel’ and can also be spelt as Chappell.

9. Charles

This masculine name means ‘of great manly strength’.

10. Colin

This name means ‘the victory of the people’. Variants are Charly and Charlie.

11. Darcel

This name can be spelt as Darcy, Darcell and means ‘from Arcy in France’.

12. Even

This popular name has an unidentified meaning but indeed makes a suitable, modern name for Gen-Z.

13. Fontane

Literally, the word means a mountain in French.

14. Francois

Also covers Francis, Franco, Frank, Franklyn, Franklin, Fremont, Franky and means ‘a free-spirited man’.

15. Friedrich

Also spelt Friederich, and covers Fred, Freddy, it means ‘to be free’.

16. Geoffrey

 Also spelt as Geffrey, Jeff, Jeffry, it means ‘to be filled with divine peace’, ‘peaceful’.

17. Gil

Also spelt Gill, Gillian means ‘to be youthful’.

18. Gilles

Pronounced ZHEEL, this unique-sounding French name is derived from the English name Giles, which means ‘young goat’.

19. Gustave

Shortened to Gustav, it is very popular and means ‘the royal staff of the ruler’.

20. Guy

A short and sweet name for a friend, mentor or guide.

21. Henri

Pronounced AHN-REE in French, this commonly-known name means ‘home ruler’. It is quite popular in the French-Canadian province of Quebec.

22. John

This popular name means ‘filled with God’s mercy’ and has variations like Johnie, Johny, Jonnie, Johnn, Jonn, John-Paul.

23. Julian

This name means ‘child born of love’ or ‘love child’. Variations include Julien, Julius and Jill.

24. Sylvestre

This classy name is based on the name Silvester, which has a Lati meaning – ‘of the forest’.

25. Vernon

A popular name that means ‘from the grove of Alders’. It has many variations like Vern, Verna, Varnal, Vernay, Verne,Vernia, and Verney.

26. Verrill

The name means ‘to be true’ and is used in English as Verily. Other similar names are Verrell, Verrill, and Verrall.

27. Vial

The name means ‘lively’ and also is used as Viau.

28. William

The name used by many kings, means ‘a protector who is completely resolute in his role’. Willie, Will, and Wil make good nicknames.

29. Xavier

This popular name is used for the boy born in January and means ‘enlightenment’. Remember St Francis Xavier?

30. Yannick

Yannick is an unheard-of name among French names and is somewhere related to the name John.

31. Yves

The very fashionable French name means ‘an archer’. So do Yvon, Ivan, Yvet and Evon.

32. Vicky

Vic, Vick, Vicq all mean ‘from the village’.

33. Warren

This name means From La Varenne in France.

Old-Fashioned French Boy Names

Did someone say that traditional French boy names are passé? No, they are not! As a matter of fact, you will find inspiration in those names that have stood the test of time and yet continue to impress and motivate the newborn to follow in the footsteps of the saint or idol they are named after. Like Marquis, a noble rank, Maxime the greatest, Miquel or like God,  Norris from the North, Orvil also spelt Orwell hailing from the golden village, Parfait or perfect, Pierce or a rock, Percival or piercing through the veil, Perry or Pierre the rocky stone,  Quin the 5th born, Rainier the wise counsellor, Remi the powerful, Ray, Roy or Roi the king or light beam, Rene the reincarnated, Romaine or Roman from Rome of course, Paul the little master, Sid from St Denis, Sommer or born in Summer, and Valiant or Brave.

1. Adam 

Adam is a classic choice of a boy’s name. The name also refers to the first man on the earth in the Bible.

2. Andre

This name is masculine and means ‘the courageous valiant man’. Variations of the name are Andreas, Andree, Andres, and Andrei. To name girl babies one can use Andrea.

3. Audric

This name is like Sage and can be used to emulate the wise and old ruler.

4. Caspar

It is the name of the friendly ghost of comic strips and actually means ‘the treasurer’.

5. Christophe

This name means ‘you carry Christ in you’. It is also spelt, Christopher.

6. Damien

The name is as subtle and exciting as the meaning – in French, ‘the bearer is one who tames’.

7. Dax

This name is short and sweet. It is a French Town and like Paris, is an inspirational name for a boy.

8. Denis

Denis is a variant of the Greek name Dionysios who is referred to as the Greek god of wine and fruitfulness.

9. Edgar

The name is all about power and fortune to the bearer of the name. A variation is Edgard.

10. Émile

This elegant name has tons of versions in different languages. Émile means ‘rival’ in Latin.

11. Félix

Felix is a worldly name, more commonly in Spain, Frace, and Portugal. The name means ‘lucky’ in Latin.

12. Fernand

Like many who bear this name the thrill of explorations is never far from its meaning.

13. Freman

With variants like Freemann, Frieman, and others this name means and ‘suggests the free man’.

14. Gary

This French name is for ‘one who guards and is watchful’.

15. Gaston

This French name has German roots and means ‘guests’ or ‘stranger’.

16. Gautier

Typically, French, the name means ‘a ruler who is powerful’.

17. Guillaume

Pronounced GEE-YOM with W acting silent, the name is a variant of Willia in French.

18. Henry

The variant Henri is used as a unisex name and means ‘to rule over the household’.

19. Ignace

This name is for ‘one who is unstoppable and fiery’.

20. Jasper

Named after the precious stone of Jasper it could be the colour, value or precious that is meant by the name.

21. Jay

A short and sweet name for the free-flying blue jay.

22. Javier

This name means your son is ‘born in January’.

23. Jean

Pronounced ZHAHN, this is a common French boy’s name and a variant of the English name John. Several royalties and commoners have this name.

24. Lafayette

This is generally used as a French surname

25. Lamar

The name is about water and means ‘of the sea’. A variation in spelling as Lamarr can be considered.

26. Marcel

The French God of War was named so. Variations are Marcellino, Marcello, Marcellus, and Marcello.

27. Oliver

The name suggests the Olive tree.

28. Pascal

A name widely used for a baby boy born on Easter Day. A spelling variation is Pasquel.

29. Robert

This name has many variations like Robbie, Robb, Robby which all mean ‘the famed or bright one’.

30. Sage

An English word too that suggests the bearer is wise, old and all-knowing.

31. Thibault

Thibault is a unique-sounding French boy’s name meaning ‘bold people’. When Normans took this name to English, the people there turned it into Theobald.

32. Tom

Tom is one of the popular names for boys in France.

33. Valeray

In French, it means a ‘brave boy’. You can also use Val, Valerian, and Valerie.

34. Wyatt

This surname can also be used as a first name and means ‘water’.

Popular French Boy Names

If you like to keep up with the trends and popularity, then these French baby boy names will certainly fancy you. Go on, check out our handpicked list! We have listed the popular French boy names and meanings so you can stay relaxed and pick the suitable moniker for your kiddo.

1. Aloïs

Aloïs is the French and Dutch form of the name Aloysius and another version of the popular name Louis. 

2. Mathéo

Derived from the Biblical name Matthew, which means ‘gift of God’ in Hebrew, Mathéo is the French model of the names Mateo and Matteo. It takes a modern take on the name.

3. Raphaël

Rooted in Hebrew, this name means ‘God heals.’ It an also modelled as Rafael, Raffael, or Rafaël. It’s a popular name and has been featured in movies like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle. The renowned Renaissance master bore it.

4. Éliott

Derived from the medieval English name Elias, Elliot has biblical relations and means ‘Lord is my God’ and ‘bravely and truly.’ The name can also be modelled as Elliot, Eliot, or Elliott.

5. Lyam

Lyam is the subtle and simple French model of the Irish name Liam, which means ‘strong-willed warrior.’

6. Mylan

Popular in the Netherlands and France, this baby boy’s name means ‘dear’ or ‘gracious.’

7. Gabriel

Pronounced GA-BREE-YEHL in French, Gabriel is a popular religious name dating back centuries. The name has appeared in the Bible as well as the Koran. It refers to the biblical archangel. 

8. Théo

Théo is a shortened French version of the Greek name Theodore. There have been several saints in the past that bore this name and it means ‘gift of God.’

8. Lucas

Lucas is a world name with biblical origins. It is derived from the Greek name Luke, which refers to the person who came from Lucania, a place in Southern Italy.

10. Samuel

Samuel is a common biblical name and is renowned globally. It means ‘God has heard.’ In French, it is pronounced as SA-MWEHL.

Common French Names for Boys

If you are on the lookout for a subtle and simple baby name for your little on that is easy to understand and spell, then these common French names for male might interest you.

1. Adrien

Pronounced A-DREE-YEHN in French, this name is derived from the Roman name Hadrian, which also belongs to a very famous Roman emperor.

2. Alfred

Alfred has French roots and means ‘wise counsellor,’ reflecting intellect and guidance for a bright future.

3. Ambroise

Meaning ‘immortal,’ Ambriose is an elegant French baby name highlighting grace and eternal charm.

4. Benjamin

Benjamin is a classic masculine name meaning ‘son of the right hand.’ 

5. Bernard

in French tradition, Bernard means ‘bold as a bear.’ This name will certainly inspire your little son to be courageous and resilient.

6. Chandler

Fans of Chandler Bing here? Well, besides the famous Friends character, Chandler is a common name across the globe. It has a modern flair and means ‘candlemaker.’ 

7. David

David is a timeless biblical name for boys that is still in demand. It means ‘beloved.’

8. Conrad

Rooted in French, Conrad is a radiant and heavy-weight name meaning ‘brave counsel,’ embodying a blend of courage and wisdom for a strong-willed child.

9. Curt

Curt is a short form of the name Curtis, which means ‘polite’ or ‘courteous.’

10. Curtis

Curtis is a refined baby name that means ‘courteous one,’ exuding a sense of grace, femininity, and optimism.

Rare French Boy Names

Fancy things that are rare and extraordinary? If yes, then you might find these rare French male names suitable for your baby boy!

1. Alvere

Finding its origins in French, Alvere is a lyrical name meaning ‘guardian spirit’ and ‘noble strength.’

2. Amalric

Amalric embodies power and industriousness, referring to ‘a leader destined for great achievements.’ 

3. Campion

Campion is a cute French name meaning ‘champion.’

4. Channing

Channing is a mixture of cool and chic and means ‘wise one.’ It exudes intelligence and wisdom, making it perfect for your child’s bright future.

5. Izod

Izod is a unique French name representing ‘island ruler,’ evoking a sense of leadership and individuality.

6. Kais

Kais is a French name with regal charm. It means ‘king’ and highlights leadership qualities, perfect for children with a strong attitude.

7. Merovee

Don’t you think Merovee sounds melodic? This gorgeous name has historical roots and is associated with the Merovingian dynasty.

8. Nael

Nael is a graceful French name with an old-world charm. It means ‘achiever,’ an ideal choice for a child destined for accomplishments.

9. Theophile

Theophile is a stylish and sophisticated French name meaning ‘lover of God.’ A unique name with a unique meaning, it expresses devotion and spirituality.

10. Christophe

Christophe is a vintage name with biblical roots. It means ‘Christ-bearer,’ inspiring the child to have faith and strength in the almighty.

FAQs

1. Do French boy names often have connections to French history, culture, or famous figures?

Certainly! There are plenty of French baby names for boys that have deep-rooted historical and cultural significance. Some of the names include Louis (a borne by several French kings), Napoleon (inspired by Napoleon Bonaparte), Vctor (inspired by French literary personality Victor Hugo), Gaston (a character from the very famous Disney story Beauty and the Beast), Charles (a borne by several French kings), and more.

2. Are there any nature-inspired French names for boys?

Yes, there we have a plethora of French boy names inspired by nature. Some examples include Célestin, Florian, Théo, Léo, Jules, Quentin, Remi, and more. 

Some beautiful names like Christien, meaning follower of Christ, Dennis or from Saint Denys, Justin the upright, Lee or kingly Mark or the defender, Newton the kernel, Noel or Christmas season, Neville from the new village, Troy or curly-haired one, and Tyce or fiery spirited may suit the French better. But there’s no stopping you from putting your own spin on French names and modifying them to suit your needs. French boy names that start with a have been the rage for quite a while. When you choose French male names, it is well worth the effort to name your child meaningfully and define his personality as soon as possible.

Happy naming time, and best wishes to you for a safe delivery!

Also Read:

European Boy Names
German Baby Boy Names
Colombian Names for Boys
Dutch Names for Boys with Meanings