Origin and Meaning of Chantal

Meaning & Origin

Stone or boulder

Origin: French - Derived from the Old French word 'canth', meaning stone. The name began to be used as a feminine given name in the 20th century.

Interesting Facts

  • Chantal is commonly associated with the French saint Jeanne-Françoise de Chantal, who co-founded the Order of the Visitation of Holy Mary in the 17th century.
  • The name is also popular in French-speaking cultures and has variations in other languages, including Chantelle in English.
  • Notable bearers of the name include Chantal Biya, the First Lady of Cameroon, and Chantal Goya, a famous French singer and actress.
  • Chantal gained popularity in the English-speaking world during the 1970s and 1980s, often seen as a stylish choice that connotes sophistication.
  • Variations and related names include Chantelle, Shantal, and Shantay, each carrying its own unique flair.