Arlette
Arlette is a girl name of French origin meaning “Little eagle, noble”, pronounced ar-LET. It ranked #494 in the United States in 2025, given to 600 babies, and peaked at #494 in 2025. Common nicknames: Lettie, Ari.
How popular is Arlette in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Arlette mean, and where does it come from?
Arlette has its roots in medieval Normandy, most famously as the name of Herleva, also recorded as Arlette, the mother of William the Conqueror in the 11th century. Its exact meaning is debated, with some scholars connecting it to Germanic elements suggesting "little eagle" or "noble," while others view it as an early French diminutive form. The name enjoyed a vogue in early 20th-century France, popularized in part by the celebrated actress known by the stage name Arletty, and it retains an old-world Gallic charm today.
How is Arlette used around the world?
Arlette is used in 1 languages worldwide.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Arlette?
Famous People Named Arlette
- Arletty — stage name of French actress Léonie Bathiat, star of Children of Paradise
- Arlette Pacheco — Mexican actress
Similar Names to Arlette
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Sibling Name Ideas for Arlette
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Arlette mean?
Arlette is a girl name of French origin meaning "Little eagle, noble." Arlette has its roots in medieval Normandy, most famously as the name of Herleva, also recorded as Arlette, the mother of William the Conqueror in the 11th century. Its exact meaning is debated, with some scholars connecting it to Germanic elements suggesting "little eagle" or "noble," while others view it as an early French diminutive form.
How do you pronounce Arlette?
Arlette is pronounced ar-LET. Common variations include Arleth, Arletta, Arlene.
Is Arlette a girl name?
Yes, Arlette is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Lettie, Ari.