In the latest name statistics published for France in 2025, a male name that had nearly disappeared by the end of the 20th century has made a surprising comeback, climbing back into the top 100 most popular names. This name, which had only about ten births in 1989, is now approaching 900 babies per year, according to data from the National Register of Physical Persons used by INSEE, France’s national statistics office. The resurgence of this name reflects a growing trend of parents choosing retro names with historical or familial significance.
The name in question is Auguste, which was given to 895 boys in 2025 and climbed to the 63rd position among male names, according to INSEE data reported by specialized websites. In 2016, only 469 newborns had this name, and by 2019, the number had increased to 661, showing a steady rise in popularity. For many young parents, Auguste offers a balance: a name with a rich historical background, yet rare enough to feel unique and distinct.
The popularity of Auguste saw its first peak at the beginning of the 20th century, with about 2,950 births in 1906 and 2,365 in 1920. However, its use gradually declined until the low point in 1989, when only ten babies were named Auguste. After decades of being nearly forgotten, the name began to rise in popularity again in the 2010s. By 2025, Auguste is approaching 900 annual births, far surpassing its variant August, which is less commonly used.
In name records, the average age of people named Auguste is now 97 years, highlighting how deeply this name is embedded in family history. This resurgence shows that while modern parents often seek unique names, they are also drawn to those with deep roots and nostalgic appeal. For more details on this trend, readers can find additional information on Doctissimo.
Retro French Name Auguste Makes Comeback in 2025 Birth Rankings
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