Frenchman or free man
Originally a short form of Francis or Francisco, Fran refers to the Germanic tribe of the Franks. The name eventually came to symbolize a 'free man' as the Franks were the only ones in the region not subject to taxation or servitude.
Less common today
Fran isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #7,799 in 1993.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
NFL Hall of Fame quarterback
Muppeteer and actress
Lead singer of the band Travis
