This list brings together 12 French girl names, running alphabetically from “Wanda” to “Wilma.” Most of these names carry roots in Germanic, Arabic, or Slavic traditions rather than in French itself, reflecting the country’s rich mix of cultures and immigrant communities. Parents choose them for a child’s first name, drawn to their distinctive sound, meaning, or family heritage.

French girl names are given names used to identify and celebrate a daughter’s identity within French families, often passed down through generations or chosen for their meaning. Many names starting with “W” entered French use through Germanic influence in eastern regions or through North African communities, like “Warda” and “Wafa.” One notable example is “Wivine,” honoring a 12th-century Belgian abbess still remembered in parts of northern France today.

Below you’ll find the table with Name, Pronunciation, Meaning, and Description.

Name: the given first name itself, spelled the way you’d see it on official documents or hear it in conversation.

Pronunciation: a simple phonetic guide showing you how to say each name correctly, syllable by syllable.

Meaning: the original sense or translation behind the name, helping you understand what it symbolizes or represents.

Description: background on where the name comes from and how it’s used, giving you context for choosing or recognizing it.

French girl names

NamePronunciationMeaning
WandaVAHN-dahWanderer
Wilhelminevee-lel-MEENResolute protector
Wivinevee-VEENConsecrated one
Winonawee-noh-NAHFirstborn daughter
WendyWAHN-deeFriend
Wardawar-DAHRose
Widadwee-DADAffection, love
Wafawah-FAHLoyalty, faithfulness
Wassilawah-see-LAHBond, connection
Wiamwee-AHMHarmony, reconciliation
Wahibawah-HEE-bahGenerous giver
WilmaVEEL-mahResolute protector

Descriptions

Wanda
A name of Slavic origin that has been used in France since the early 20th century, often linked to stories of Polish princesses and adventurous heroines.
Wilhelmine
The French feminine form of the Germanic name Wilhelm, historically used among aristocratic and Alsatian families.
Wivine
Rooted in the legend of Saint Wivina, a 12th-century Belgian abbess venerated in parts of northern France, this name is still occasionally given in her honor.
Winona
Borrowed from Native American tradition, this gentle-sounding name has found a small but steady following among French parents seeking something unusual.
Wendy
Popularized worldwide by the character in Peter Pan, Wendy has been used sparingly but consistently in France since the mid-20th century.
Warda
An Arabic-origin name widely used within French families of North African heritage, evoking beauty and delicacy through its floral meaning.
Widad
A tender Arabic name common in French Maghrebi communities, chosen for its warm meaning tied to devotion and fondness.
Wafa
A name of Arabic origin popular among French families of North African descent, symbolizing steadfastness and devotion.
Wassila
Used among French families with Algerian and Tunisian roots, this name reflects the idea of a meaningful link or means of closeness.
Wiam
A softly spoken Arabic name found in French Maghrebi communities, chosen for its peaceful and unifying meaning.
Wahiba
An Arabic-derived name used in France, especially among families of North African origin, honoring the virtue of generosity.
Wilma
A shortened Germanic form related to Wilhelmine, occasionally seen in eastern French regions with historic German influence.
If you think there is a missing term, let us know using the contact form.