Francis

[Harriet428]

Is it due a comeback?

Francis is still solidly in the top 300 in England and Wales, so it's still reasonably well used and has a consistent, albeit not super high pattern of use. It has been rising in popularity in recent years. I like Francis, but would avoid as I can't stand Frankie.

We very nearly picked Francis, but I also couldnt bear Frankie. It did prompt a lot of people to ask if we are catholics

I love it but I too would wonder if you were Catholics. (I’m Catholic so not a negative thing!)

Middle name of four generations in the Beyond family :)

I know a 4 year old Francis. I like it a lot.

I like it a lot, but would only use as a middle name as I detest the diminutives.

It is already coming back for both boys and girls (Frances), along with Francesca for girls and Franklin for boys.

@Luredbyapomegranate really dislike Franklin it has a completely different feel to me but have heard of two born this year so far

I remember reading that Francis has made a modest comeback because of the current Pope.

I think it's a fine name. That said, if I met a young Francis I would probably assume he comes from a Catholic family or he was named after a relative. Because it's not really a fashionable name.

I know a 3yo Scottish Francis and yes, his parents are Catholic and fairly religious. He gets called France and sometimes Fran or Frank; I expect he'll be Frank when he goes to school. Friends did think it was a bit unexpected, but after the initial very short surprise, it seems to suit him and the family.

Absolutely love Francis.

Francis is great. Franklin beyond dreadful. Frank not great.

Sorry I don't like it, it just gives me a fusty and wussy vibe. A Francis would be super neat. I know that's probably ridiculous, it's just an immediate impression. Franklin is a bit better, but I'm not blown away.

I do quite like Frances for a girl though, especially as a middle name. And Francesca is gorgeous.

Actually how about Francesco? Too OTT?

I have a baby Francis, everyone has been really positive (to my face anyway!) about it

The only Francis I know is that one in MIC and I think it really suits him - not a compliment though! It just makes me think of someone really pretentious and camp who calls everyone dahhhling.

Love it. The female version is my middle name. It's one of my top three boys' names.

It makes me think of the naughty older kid from Malcolm in the Middle! :)

I think Francis is a brilliant name!

Love it. We are using it as our baby’s middle name (after his great grandfather).