Sophia Girl
soh-FEE-uh
“wisdom” · Greek
#5
Arlette
GirlFrench, Germanic
- Meaning
- uncertain (origin disputed)
- Origin
- French, Germanic
- Pronunciation
- ahr-LEHT
- Syllables
- 2
- US rank 2025
- #494
- US babies 2025
- 600
- Best rank
- #494 (2025)
- Peak year
- 2025
Meaning and origin of Arlette
Arlette is usually linked to French and Germanic roots, but its original meaning is uncertain.
Arlette is a French name of uncertain origin, possibly derived from Germanic elements, though no explanation is settled. It is best known through Herleva, also called Arlette, the mother of William the Conqueror. The name has a delicate French elegance and a vintage charm, and it has long been used in France. Arlette pairs well with many surnames and middle names, and Lettie is a sweet nickname. It suits parents who want a name that feels romantic and historic without being common.
Popularity over time
Arlette first appears in US Social Security records in 1913. It has ranked in the top 1,000 in 7 different years, starting in 2018. It is at its all-time high right now: 2025 brought both its best national rank, #494, and its highest count, 600 babies. Use has grown 369% in ten years.
Its national rank moved from #1,955 in 1920, #1,727 in 1950, #3,325 in 1980, #2,090 in 2000, #1,514 in 2010, and #494 in 2025. Of the 8,109 US girls named Arlette since records began, 29% were born in the 2020s, its biggest decade. The 2010s come next, with 1,883 babies.
Other girls' names that peaked around the same time include Halo, Solana, Emerie, Lakelynn, and Yara.
Where it is most popular (2025)
In 2025, Arlette ranked highest in Texas, California, and New Mexico.
| State | Rank there | Babies |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | #235 | 150 |
| California | #251 | 132 |
| New Mexico | #259 | 6 |
| Utah | #334 | 13 |
| Nevada | #339 | 8 |
Gender, sound and spelling
In the US it is used almost only for girls.
Arlette is usually pronounced ahr-LEHT, with two syllables. It has seven letters, starts with A and ends in “-te”.
Middle names for Arlette
A few middle names that flow with Arlette: each avoids a matching first letter, a rhyme and a vowel clash where the names meet.
Sibling names for Arlette
Similar names
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Lists that include Arlette
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Arlette mean?
Arlette is usually linked to French and Germanic roots, but its original meaning is uncertain.
What is the origin of the name Arlette?
Arlette has French and Germanic roots. Arlette is a French name of uncertain origin, possibly derived from Germanic elements, though no explanation is settled.
Is Arlette a popular name?
Yes. Arlette ranked #494 in the US in 2025, which makes it in the top 1,000.
Is Arlette a boy or girl name?
Arlette is mainly a girl's name. In the US it is used almost only for girls.
How do you pronounce Arlette?
Arlette is usually pronounced ahr-LEHT. Stressed syllables are in capital letters.
Popularity figures come from US Social Security card applications (names given to at least five babies in a year, 1880 to 2025). How we source names and meanings