Fauve

wild or untamed
French origin · Unisex name
50% boys50% girls
#1697US 2023
10Births / yr
Stable
Top 1.3%Percentile

What does Fauve mean and where does it come from?

Fauve is derived from the French word 'fauve', meaning 'wild' or 'untamed', often used to describe wild animals.

Cultural significance
The name is associated with the Fauvism art movement, which emphasized bold colors and brushwork, reflecting a sense of freedom and expression.
Peak popularity
Reached #1697 in 2015 — currently #1697 in the US.
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Related Reading
French-origin baby names with timeless appeal
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How else can you spell Fauve?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

What middle names flow best with Fauve?

Fauve works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Fauve Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Fauve John
One syllable · timeless choice
Fauve Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Fauve Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Fauve Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Fauve Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
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Middle Names
The best middle names for Fauve
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How popular is Fauve right now?

Holding steady — currently #1697 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 20192023#1697 · Top 1.3%
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
YearUS RankBirthsvs Prior Year
2023#169710stable
2022#169710stable
2021#169710stable
2020#169710stable
2019#169710
💎Fauve is exceptionally rare — it does not appear in US Social Security records, meaning fewer than 5 babies per year have received this name.

What are good nicknames for Fauve?

Common
FauFauvFauvieFauvy

Common questions about the name Fauve

What does the name Fauve mean?
Fauve means "wild or untamed" — a name rooted in French tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Fauve?
Fauve is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Fauve?
Fauve originates from French tradition. French names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Fauve a common or rare name?
Fauve is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Fauve more of a girl or boy name?
Fauve is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.