Meaning, origin, history
The name Fontaine is of French origin and means "fountain." It is derived from the Old French word "fontaine," which referred to a natural spring or artificial water source. The name has been used for both given names and surnames throughout history.
Fontaine as a given name gained popularity in France during the Middle Ages, often bestowed upon children born near or named after fountains or other bodies of water. The name was also popular among the nobility, with several historical figures bearing the name Fontaine, such as Marie-Anne de Fontanges, a mistress of King Louis XIV.
In English-speaking countries, Fontaine is less commonly used as a given name but remains a popular surname. Some famous individuals with the surname Fontaine include French-American actress Mimi Rogers and Canadian football player Étienne Moreau-Fontaine.
Overall, the name Fontaine carries a sense of elegance and refinement, evocative of its origins in French nobility and natural beauty. Whether used as a given name or surname, Fontaine is a distinctive choice that pays homage to its rich history and meaning.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Fontaine since 1880
Total births
137
Total since 1880
Peak year
1963
10 births
in 1995
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years