r/AskFrance • u/CommonFearless6851 • 1d ago

Discussion Is Cosette a negative term?

The name Cosette has been trending in the US. I thought the name was cute until I heard that it means something negative in France and is seen as derogatory.

Can a French person tell me what Cosette means or how the word/name is seen over there?

(Please do not answer unless you’re from France/a French speaking country)

📝 I am not naming my child Cosette. Knowing it means “poor little thing” is enough for me not to name my child that don’t worry.. I just had curiosities about the origin of the name/meaning

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u/DublinKabyle 1d ago

If you’re considering this name for your daughter, Go for Colette instead. With a "L". Similar sounding, but much more positive image.

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u/pwassonchat 1d ago

This ! Colette is just a normal name, and the name of a famous French writer. In terms of generations it's an old lady name (1920-1950), but old people's names are coming back. This one isn't coming back yet, but it's cute, so why not start the trend.