Antoinette, derived from the French ' Antoine', meaning 'priceless' or 'highly praiseworthy', is a feminine given name of French origin. It was popular during the 17th to 19th centuries and has been used in various forms across different languages. Notably, it shares its root with names like Anthony, Antonio, and Antoine, all of which convey similar sentiments of worth and admiration. The name Antoinette is often associated with historical figures such as Marie Antoinette, the former Queen of France and wife of King Louis XVI. Despite its historical significance, the name has maintained a level of elegance and sophistication that transcends time. In modern times, it continues to be chosen by parents who appreciate its rich heritage and distinctive sound.
The name Antoinette experienced a peak in popularity during the late 1960s to early 1980s, with a notable increase from 5 births in 1938 to a high of 8 births in both 1966 and 1989. Despite this, the name's overall usage has been quite consistent over time, with an average of around 7 births per year across the provided decades.