This list covers 31 French boy names, running alphabetically from “Jacques” to “Justinien”. Most carry biblical or saintly origins, though a handful trace back to Roman and Breton roots instead. Parents use these names for newborns, while writers and genealogists rely on them for characters and family records with authentic French flavor.

French boy names are given names traditionally used for male children across France, ranging from timeless classics to compound forms that pair two names together. Many draw on Catholic saints and biblical figures, which explains why variations of “Jean” (the French John) appear so often on this list. One striking example is Jean-Michel, made famous worldwide by artist Jean-Michel Basquiat.

Below you’ll find the table with each name, its pronunciation, its meaning, and a short description.

Name: the French given name itself, shown in its standard spelling so you can see exactly how it’s written.

Pronunciation: a simplified phonetic guide that shows you how to say each name the way a French speaker would.

Meaning: the original sense or root behind the name, helpful if you want a name that carries a specific message.

Description: background on the name’s history and notable people who carried it, giving you context beyond the bare definition.

French boy names

Descriptions