There are lots of Cajun names that are still in use today–especially in south Louisiana. But even out outside of Cajun country names like Aaron, Charles, or Christine just seem American at this point. This list does not include any of those names. Rather, I looked through the common names of Cajun immigrants and picked out those names that while unusual, would still fit in just fine in your average Kindergarten classroom. Look these over, but also don’t be afraid to shake the family tree and see if the perfect name falls out! My list has been primarily curated from this list of common Acadian names–check out the website for more information about Acadians and to see a full list of common names from the era.
Girls
Abella–Abella means breath and is a lovely twist on the more popular Isabella.
Aurelie–this name was popular in France for a while, but never a big hit here. Sounds like she could be friends with Arianna or Audrey, but with it’s own unique flavor.
Coraline–Neil Gaimin thought he made this name up for his 2002 adolescent novel, but it was popular with the Acadians as well. Similar in feel to Caroline, but you probably won’t meet another one if you name your daughter this.
Edmee (pronounced ed-may)–this pretty, usual name means prosperous protection
Eliette–a feminine twist on the male Elliot, this little girl will be right at home with Ellas and Emilys, and the adorable nickname Ellie is always an option as well.
Josette–Sweet but strong, this name is less popular than Josephine, but provides the same cool nickname: Jo.
Leonie–derived from the Latin word for Lion, Leonie is on the upswing in France and popular in Germany, but hasn’t cracked the top 1000 here in the US in many years. Only drawback with this one is the lack of a good nickname.
Lydiane–a variation on Lydia, this name it light, pretty, and very feminine.
Marielle–it’s part classic with Marie at the front, but the -elle ending also makes it very current. Perfect if you want an Ellie, but would like to avoid the more common Ella.
Mariette–a little bit Marie, but with the adorable nickname Etta available. This is perfect if you want to honor a relative, but also want something different.
Noelie–a variation on the more common name “Noelle,” it means “born on Christmas.” It’s perfect for a baby born any time of year.
Roseline–Rose is a popular middle name, but why not move it up to that first name spot? The longer variation is the perfect way to do that.
Sidonie–the beautiful name has never been in the top 1000 in the USA. A lot like the popular Sydney, but with a more exotic flair.
Sylvie–Sophie and all of her friends have taken over the baby name universe. But what about this sweet little name? It has a modern sound, but she won’t be sharing this name with three of her classmates.
Violette–It’s pretty, it’s sweet, but not overly-girly, and people should be able to pronounce it.
Boys
Albin–he sounds smart but approachable and he’ll fit right in with peers like Austin and Gavin.
Aristide–full diclosure: this is one of my boys’ middle names. It’s got a lot of grandeur for such a small name.
Armand–a strong masculine name, it means “soldier.”
Aubin–this great name is perfect for a boy or a girl. It’s got that hot “-en” ending but it’s traditional instead of kreativ.
Augustin–I have a little one named August and one of the best things about it are all the great nicknames: augie, aug, gus, gussie. This strong, masculine name means “great, magnificent.”
Avit–a cool little name perfect for an urban baby. The pronunciation sounds a lot like “david” without the “d.”
Bastien–it’s an elegant name with a European feel. You won’t meet many, but most people will be able to pronounce it.
Bruno–it’s a macho name with that popular “o” ending. It’s also classic Cajun.
Emeric–Emeric means “leader” and it certainly sounds distinguished. This name fits in well with classmates like Eliott and Emmett.
Etienne–one of my boys uses this French form of Stephen as his middle name. It’s familiar but rarely used.
Everard–lover of names like Evan and Ethan should also like Everard. It’s got a sharp and clean sound that give it a modern feel.
Just–It’s a lot of name for a child–so much to live up to! But on the right little boy it will be adorable.
Lazare–this is a smooth-sounding name means “God has helped.” Might be perfect for a long-awaited baby.
Loic–it has a sharp sound like the popular “Luke,” and it means “famed warrior.” What’s not to like?
Roch–like the more-popular name Blaise this name has plenty of macho swagger with tradition as well.
Thibaut–Pronounced “t-boe,” a little boy with this moniker will probably drive a pickup truck.
Zephirin–people love unusual letters these days and Zephirin definitely fits the bill. The name means “soft wind” and Zep would make an amazing nickname.
Still haven’t found that perfect name? This is my favorite baby-naming book (affiliate link):
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I am Cajun and am looking up names for my next pet (dog) that I will pick in june. I have named all my pets Cajun names and have kinda ran out of names. thanks for the info. I liked several.
My Treeing Walker Coonhound is named Remy.
What is the meaning of the name T-Van…?
Thibault means brave. I’m not familiar with T-van–do you know how it’s spelled?
I always loved the name Nola. I was born in New Orleans and always thought that name sounds beautiful.
Someone inquired about a name T Van. In general, a T before any Cajun name comes from ‘petit’ and means little – it is a diminutive, usually to distinguish someone from his father or an older relative of the same name. Tommy’s son might be called T Tommy. Wayne’s nephew might be called T Wayne. Like calling them Little Tommy or Little Wayne. It is a common joke to call someone named Troy T Roy.