When it comes to boy names, Latin, Greek and Biblical first names reign supreme in France. Many popular French baby boy names cross borders effortlessly, such as Quentin, Thomas, Hugo or Pierre. 

If you’re looking for a French baby boy name, we’ve got you covered. Give this list of French baby boy names a spin. (And if you're not sure whether you're having a boy or a girl, check out our favorite French baby girl names, too.)

Antoine. “Invaluable” is the meaning of Antoine in French — and what an appropriate name for the newest member of your family. Popular across France, it’s common in the Loire Valley, famous for its fairytale chateaux.

Aurélien. Taking off as a French first name in the 1980s, Aurélien, pronounced oar-el-ee-yen, is a great name for a baby who will grow up into a passionate young man. With the meaning “golden,” or “shining,” this first name can also be spelled Aurelian.

Camille. A unisex first name, Camille is popular as a first name for both boys and girls. Saint Camille is responsible for considerable hospital reform in the Roman empire during the 17th century, and the saint is honored the 14th of July each year, coinciding with Bastille Day.

Corentin. From on the stormy coasts of Brittany, Corentin is a name steeped in tradition. You’ll pronounce it corh-ahn-tehn, any might spell it Corentyn, as homage to the Cletic influence in the region. 

Émile. Pronounced em-eel, this first name of Latin and Greek origins means “rival” or “obliging respectively.” If you’re familiar with Émile Zola’s work, you’ll appreciate this first name for your baby boy.

Gaël. “Generous Lord” is the significance of this baby boy name. Gaël is a Celtic name with origins in Brittany. It is notably popular in the Brittany and Paris regions but present throughout the Hexagon.

Jules. A popular first name in the Parisian region, the name stems from the Latin “jovilios,” or “descendent of Jupiter.” Jules are considered to have strong morals, a sense of justice and ambition.

Laurent. This outdoorsy name means “carrier of bay leaf.” Laurent is derived from the Latin word “laurus,” or laurier (bay leaf) in French — a plant that grows wild in the hills of Provence.

Loïc. Pronounced low-eek, Loïc appeared as a first name in the 40s and saw a surge in popularity in the 80s. 

Malo. Another name from the coast of Brittany, Malo means “light.” Saint-Malo is also the name of a fortress and picturesque coastal town in the region. This first name, pronounced mal-low, has seen a wide rise in popularity since the early 2000s and is right on trend.

Marcel. A name meaning “dedicated to Mars,” this is an excellent first name for an Aries baby boy. This first name dates back to antiquity, but has come back into fashion — especially in Paris and Bordeaux.

Marius. Will your little boy grow up on the water? Then Marius is a strong choice! From the word "marinus," which means “maritime,” this baby boy name has a strong ocean influence. 

Maxime / Maxence. Both stemming from Latin, and meaning “the strongest,” Maxime or Maxence are names that indicate strength. Several French writers, poets and artists carry these names.

Olivier. Similar to the English Oliver, Olivier means “from the olive tree.” It is common in central France, and pronounced like oh-liv-ee-yay. Reaching a peak of popularity in the 70s, Olivier remains a common choice.

Romain / Roman. A classic French name from the Latin “Romanus,” or “from Rome.” It’s equally popular in urban areas as in the provinces, making it a wonderfully versatile name. Both versions are pronounced roh-mahn.

Thibault. Thibault, pronounced tea-beau, is a very popular first name in France. It means “courageous.” You can get creative with the spelling: Thibaut, Thiebault, Thybault, Thibaud, Thibald, Thiebaut, Tibault, Thybaut. Choose the one that fits your child best!

Valentin. From the Latin “valenus,” the first name Valentin signifies strength and vigor. It’s pronounced val-ahn-tan and is a fine name for an active baby boy.


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