Armande

Armande is a feminine given name of French origin. It is the feminine form of Armand, a name that derives from Germanic elements meaning “army” and “man.” In the francophone world, Armande has historically appeared in literature, theatre, and aristocratic circles, though it is less common in contemporary usage.

The name’s most notable bearer is Armande Béjart (1641–1684), a French actress who joined Molière’s troupe and became his wife. She played a key role in the development of 17th‑century French theatre and contributed to the early years of the troupe that would evolve into the Comédie-Française. Her prominence in the world of drama helped lend the name a cultural association with the French stage.

Today, Armande remains relatively uncommon, retained primarily in families with French heritage or within historical discussions of French theatre. Variants and related names include Armand and Armant, though Armande as a standalone given name is predominantly used in French-speaking contexts.