French Names and Surnames: A Comprehensive Guide

This article explores the fascinating world of French names and surnames, delving into their rich history, cultural significance, and diverse meanings. From classic and traditional names to modern and unique choices, we'll explore a comprehensive list of both French first names and surnames, providing insights into their origins and their enduring popularity. Whether you're looking for inspiration for a new baby's name, exploring your family history, or simply seeking to learn more about French culture, this guide offers a wealth of information.
1. **Adrien:** meaning "man from Adria"
2. **Alain:** meaning "noble" or "harmony"
3. **Alexandre:** meaning "defender of mankind"
4. **André:** meaning "manly" or "strong"
5. **Antoine:** meaning "priceless" or "inestimable"
6. **Arnaud:** meaning "strong as a bear"
7. **Arthur:** meaning "bear" or "strong"
8. **Augustin:** meaning "venerable" or "majestic"
9. **Baptiste:** meaning "baptized" or "to baptize"
10. **Benjamin:** meaning "son of the right hand"
11. **Bernard:** meaning "brave as a bear"
12. **Bertrand:** meaning "bright" or "famous"
13. **Charles:** meaning "free man"
14. **Christian:** meaning "follower of Christ"
15. **Christophe:** meaning "bearer of Christ"
16. **Clément:** meaning "merciful" or "gentle"
17. **David:** meaning "beloved"
18. **Denis:** meaning "belonging to Dionysus"
19. **Didier:** meaning "rich" or "abundant"
20. **Édouard:** meaning "wealthy guardian"
21. **Émile:** meaning "rival" or "industrious"
22. **Emmanuel:** meaning "God is with us"
23. **Eric:** meaning "everlasting ruler"
24. **Étienne:** meaning "crown"
25. **Fabien:** meaning "bean" or "farmer"
26. **Félix:** meaning "happy" or "lucky"
27. **Ferdinand:** meaning "brave peace"
28. **François:** meaning "free man"
29. **Gabriel:** meaning "God is my strength"
30. **Gaston:** meaning "guest" or "protector"
31. **Gérard:** meaning "spear" or "warrior"
32. **Gilles:** meaning "pledge" or "hostage"
33. **Guillaume:** meaning "helmet" or "protector"
34. **Henri:** meaning "ruler of the house"
35. **Jacques:** meaning "he who supplants"
36. **Jean:** meaning "God is gracious"
37. **Jean-Pierre:** meaning "God is gracious" and "rock"
38. **Joachim:** meaning "Jehovah will establish"
39. **Joseph:** meaning "God will increase"
40. **Julien:** meaning "youthful" or "downy-bearded"
41. **Laurent:** meaning "laurel" or "victory"
42. **Louis:** meaning "famous warrior"
43. **Luc:** meaning "light"
44. **Marc:** meaning "warlike"
45. **Martin:** meaning "warlike"
46. **Mathieu:** meaning "gift of Jehovah"
47. **Michel:** meaning "who is like God?"
48. **Nicolas:** meaning "victory of the people"
49. **Olivier:** meaning "olive tree"
50. **Pascal:** meaning "Easter"
51. **Patrick:** meaning "nobleman"
52. **Paul:** meaning "small"
53. **Pierre:** meaning "rock" or "stone"
54. **Philippe:** meaning "lover of horses"
55. **Pierre:** meaning "rock" or "stone"
56. **Raphaël:** meaning "God has healed"
57. **Rémi:** meaning "oarsman"
58. **René:** meaning "reborn"
59. **Richard:** meaning "brave ruler"
60. **Robert:** meaning "bright fame"
61. **Roger:** meaning "famous spear"
62. **Roland:** meaning "famous glory"
63. **Samuel:** meaning "God has heard"
64. **Sébastien:** meaning "venerable"
65. **Simon:** meaning "hearing" or "listener"
66. **Stéphane:** meaning "crown"
67. **Thierry:** meaning "ruler of the people"
68. **Thomas:** meaning "twin"
69. **Valentin:** meaning "strong" or "healthy"
70. **Vincent:** meaning "conquering"
71. **Victor:** meaning "conqueror"
72. **Xavier:** meaning "bright" or "shining"
73. **Yves:** meaning "yew tree"