Methodology and selection criteria
To compile this ranking, we first centralized the official first name assignment data in France up to the end of 2024, sourced from INSEE. In parallel, we analyzed over 200,000 online queries on parenting platforms and social networks. The selected criteria combine usage frequency, annual growth, and peak search volume on Google Trends.
We also ensured to diversify linguistic origins in order to capture the desire for escape or a return to roots. Finally, the “momentum” indicator measures the rate of progression of a first name over the last 24 months, to detect rising values before they truly explode.
Top 20 Boy Names in 2025
| Rank | First Name | Progression 2023-2024 | Origin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Léo | +2.1% | Germanic |
| 2 | Gabriel | +1.8% | Hebrew |
| 3 | Arthur | +1.5% | Celtic |
| 4 | Raphaël | +2.3% | Hebrew |
| 5 | Adam | +0.9% | Hebrew |
| 6 | Maël | +3.0% | Breton |
| 7 | Noah | +2.7% | Hebrew |
| 8 | Julien | +0.5% | Latin |
| 9 | Gabin | +1.2% | Latin |
| 10 | Élio | +4.1% | Greek |
| 11 | Oscar | +2.9% | Scandinavian |
| 12 | Hugo | +0.3% | Germanic |
| 13 | Théo | +1.0% | Greek |
| 14 | Enzo | +1.7% | Italian |
| 15 | Sacha | +0.8% | Russian |
| 16 | Liam | +3.5% | Irish |
| 17 | Martin | +0.4% | Latin |
| 18 | Élian | +2.2% | Breton |
| 19 | Kaël | +3.8% | Breton |
| 20 | Santiago | +2.6% | Spanish |
Analysis of Major Trends
1. Heritage and Cultural Roots
There is a resurgence of first names with strong cultural resonance: Maël, Élian, or Kaël reflect a desire to connect with Breton regional traditions. These choices often stem from a wish for “embraced roots,” or even an affirmation of a strong local identity.
2. Modernity and Internationality
Names such as Oscar, Liam, or Santiago testify to a resolutely global orientation. Popularized by media personalities or TV series characters, they reflect the growing influence of Anglophone and Latin cultures.
3. Revisited Tradition
Reliable favorites – Léo, Gabriel, Arthur – continue to charm. But it is their spelling or nuanced pronunciation (acute accent on Élio, full form Raphaël) that gives them a touch of novelty.
4. Controlled Originality
Some names gain popularity without tipping into eccentricity: Gabin or Élian bring a gentle surprise, playing on rarity without social recognition frustration.
Cultural and Media Influences
The ranking would not have the same shape without Netflix series, films, or celebrity red carpets. The beautiful Oscar awarded to “Life is Beautiful” or the presence of Santiago in several Spanish-language soap operas partly explain their success in Francophone lands. Conversely, the release of the Arthurian saga “The Destiny of Arthur” revives the attractiveness of the eponymous name.
How to Choose the Ideal First Name?
- Combine originality and clarity: a name too rare can cause misunderstanding and spelling errors.
- Check the sound with the last name and possible initial to avoid cacophonies.
- Think long term: a name liked at 5 years old must remain relevant at 25 years old.
- Discuss with your circle to gather impressions and avoid cultural misunderstandings.
In Brief: Key Points
🔑 The top 5 (Léo, Gabriel, Arthur, Raphaël, Adam) still dominate, but Élio and Maël are gaining ground.
🌍 The heritage–international mix is intensifying, boosted by Netflix and diasporic communities.
🕰️ Tradition and modernity coexist, offering a rich choice depending on the desired style.
🎯 Your decision must marry uniqueness and ease of life (pronunciation, spelling).
FAQ
- How is the popularity of Breton-inspired first names evolving?
- The Breton trend remains strong, driven by a desire to return to roots and affirm identity. Maël and Kaël stand out clearly.
- What influence do TV series and celebrities have?
- The media shape parental choices: memorable characters and celebrities introduce or bring certain names back into fashion.
- Should one favor a timeless or original first name?
- Timeless names provide reassurance in the long term, originality creates a unique memory. The compromise is often found in spelling variants or rare but simple names.
