Dutch Names

  1. Eugenius
    • Origin:

      Latin form of Eugene, Greek
    • Meaning:

      "well-born, noble"
    • Description:

      The yoo sound at the beginning of a name has not typically been attractive to the modern ear. Probably the most appealing form of this ancient name has been the feminized Eugenie, thanks to the British princess.
  2. Karste
    • Description:

      Karste is an uncommon feminine name that likely originated as a variant of Karsten or Carsten, which themselves derive from the Christian name Christian, ultimately meaning 'follower of Christ.' This rare variation with the feminine ending 'e' gives the traditionally masculine name a softer edge while maintaining its strong, distinctive sound. The name may have Scandinavian or German connections, though its exact origins are somewhat obscure due to its limited usage. Karste has a contemporary feel with its crisp consonants and clean ending, making it appealing to parents seeking something uncommon yet straightforward. The name carries a certain strength and modernity, potentially appealing to those looking for a name that falls outside traditional gender expectations while still having historical roots. Its rarity means a child named Karste would likely have a truly distinctive identity.

  3. Jante
    • Description:

      Jante is a feminine name with Scandinavian connections, though it's relatively uncommon even in Nordic countries. The name may relate to the Danish-Norwegian concept of 'Janteloven' (the Law of Jante), a cultural phenomenon describing a mentality that discourages individual achievement in favor of collective welfare. As a personal name, Jante has a distinctive, modern sound with its crisp consonants and clear ending. It's particularly appealing to parents seeking a short, international-sounding name that remains unusual. The name has never been widely popular in English-speaking countries, maintaining its rarity across most naming databases. Jante offers a minimalist yet distinctive option for parents seeking something truly unique.
  4. Vincentius
    • Description:

      Vincentius is the original Latin form of the name Vincent, derived from the Roman name 'Vincentius' which stems from 'vincens' meaning 'conquering' or 'victorious.' This masculine name carries a sense of classical dignity and strength through its historical connections. Vincentius was borne by several early Christian saints and martyrs, including St. Vincent of Saragossa, giving it deep religious significance. While the shortened form Vincent has remained popular throughout Western countries, the full Latin Vincentius is considerably rarer, often chosen by parents who appreciate its scholarly, historical character and impressive sound. The name offers the friendly nicknames Vince or Vinny while maintaining a formal, distinguished full version.
  5. Bastiaan
    • Origin:

      Dutch short form of Sebastian, Latin from Greek
    • Meaning:

      "man of Sebastia"
    • Description:

      Bastiaan is a common Dutch form of Bastian, a short form of Sebastian that stands on its own. While the double A is not intuitive for English speakers, the name is widely used in the Netherlands.
  6. Gye
    • Description:

      Gye is an extremely rare masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from an English surname, a variant of Guy (from Germanic origins meaning "guide" or "wood"), or have Korean origins where it can mean "large" or "great" depending on the Chinese character used. In some contexts, it might be a short form of names like Gyles or an Anglicized spelling of a name from another culture. The name's brevity makes it distinctive yet simple to pronounce in most languages. Gye has never been common enough to register in popular naming statistics in Western countries. Its rarity gives it an enigmatic quality, making it intriguing for parents seeking a truly uncommon name with cross-cultural potential.

  7. Verandia
    • Description:

      Verandia is a feminine name with Latin influences, likely derived from elements of 'veritas' (truth) or 'ver' (spring), combined with a melodic ending. This uncommon name carries an elegant, almost mythological quality reminiscent of classical literature. Though rare in historical records, Verandia follows the pattern of elaborate Latinate names that occasionally emerged during the Renaissance and again in the 19th century. The flowing syllables and soft consonants create a romantic, ethereal impression, while the 'ver-' beginning connects it to words suggesting truth and springtime in several Romance languages. While lacking widespread historical usage, Verandia might appeal to contemporary parents seeking a distinctive name with classical roots and a feminine, rhythmic quality. The name offers potential nicknames like Vera, Andi, or Dia, providing versatility despite its elaborate full form.
  8. Joshuah
    • Description:

      Joshuah is a masculine name that represents a spelling variation of Joshua, which derives from the Hebrew name Yehoshua, meaning "Yahweh is salvation" or "God is deliverance." This biblical name refers to the successor of Moses who led the Israelites into the Promised Land. While Joshua has consistently remained popular in English-speaking countries, the Joshuah spelling variant adds a distinctive touch while maintaining the traditional pronunciation. This alternative spelling began appearing more frequently in the late 20th century as parents sought unique variations of classic names. Though less common than the standard spelling, Joshuah offers the familiarity of a timeless name with a slight twist, giving it an individualistic quality while honoring the name's rich historical and spiritual heritage.
  9. Leesa
    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Lisa, short form of Elizabeth, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God"
    • Description:

      Leesa is a feminine name that emerged as a variant spelling of Lisa, which itself derives from Elisabeth or Elizabeth, a Hebrew name meaning 'God is my oath' or 'consecrated to God.' This alternative spelling became popular in the mid-20th century as parents sought more distinctive ways to write familiar names.
  10. Roeland
    • Description:

      Roeland is a Dutch masculine name derived from the Germanic elements "hrod" meaning 'fame' and "land" meaning 'land' or 'territory'. It is a variation of Roland, a name popularized by the legendary medieval knight who was a paladin of Charlemagne and hero of the 'Song of Roland.' In the Netherlands and Flanders, Roeland has remained a steadily used traditional name, valued for its strong historical roots and dignified sound. The name conveys qualities of courage, leadership, and nobility. While not among the most common Dutch names, Roeland carries a timeless appeal and cultural significance that continues to attract parents looking for a name with historical depth.

  11. Diderick
    • Description:

      Diderick is a masculine name of Germanic origin, representing a variant of Dietrich or Diederik. The name combines the Germanic elements 'theud' meaning 'people' or 'folk,' and 'ric' meaning 'ruler' or 'power,' thus translating to 'ruler of the people.' This historical name was popular among medieval Germanic nobility and has variants across many European cultures. While relatively uncommon today, Diderick carries the weight of historical significance and projects strength and leadership qualities. The name has a distinctive, somewhat formal sound that sets it apart from more common contemporary names. For parents interested in names with clear etymological meanings and historical connections, Diderick offers a strong masculine option with royal connotations and cross-cultural European heritage.

  12. Stijn
    • Origin:

      Dutch short form
    • Description:

      As you may surmise from its origins as a short form for Constantijn and Augustijn, Stijn rhymes with nine and fine, though most English-speakers wouldn't guess that. A popular name in the Netherlands that's obscure elsewhere, for reasons undoubtedly connected to its spelling and pronunciation issues.
  13. Kort
    • Origin:

      Dutch
    • Meaning:

      "short"
    • Description:

      A Dutch surname which is given as a full name to a handful of boys in the US each year, possibly as a spelling variant of Kurt.
  14. Egidius
    • Description:

      Egidius is a masculine name with ancient roots, derived from the Greek name Aigidios, which relates to 'aegis' (shield). It's the Latin form of the name that evolved into Giles in English. Historically popular among early Christians due to Saint Egidius (Saint Giles), a 7th-century hermit revered for his piety and compassion. The name remains relatively uncommon today but holds appeal for parents drawn to classical or ecclesiastical names with substantial historical weight. Egidius carries connotations of protection, wisdom, and spiritual devotion. Though rare in contemporary usage, it offers a distinctive alternative to more common classical names while maintaining rich historical and religious connections.
  15. Frerik
    • Description:

      Frerik is a rare masculine name with Germanic and Scandinavian origins. It represents a less common variant of Frederik or Fredrik, which ultimately derive from the Germanic name Friedrich, meaning 'peaceful ruler' (from 'frid' meaning peace and 'ric' meaning ruler or power). Frerik appears most frequently in the Netherlands, northern Germany, and Scandinavian countries, though it remains uncommon even in these regions. The name has a distinctive sound that retains the strength of its more popular relatives while offering a unique alternative. Frerik has never achieved widespread popularity, maintaining its status as an uncommon choice that connects to Northern European heritage.
  16. Godfried
    • Description:

      Godfried is a masculine name of Germanic origin, representing the Dutch and Flemish form of Godfrey or Geoffrey. The name combines the elements 'god' (god) and 'fried' (peace), meaning 'God's peace' or 'divine peace.' With deep historical roots stretching back to medieval Europe, Godfried was particularly popular among nobility and appears in historical records across the Netherlands, Belgium, and parts of Germany. While less common in modern times, especially in English-speaking countries, it remains in use in Dutch-speaking regions. The name carries dignified connotations and religious significance, evoking both spiritual devotion and the peaceful qualities associated with divine blessing. Pronunciation typically follows Dutch phonetics with emphasis on the first syllable.
  17. Siemen
    • Description:

      Siemen is a masculine name with Dutch and Frisian origins, essentially a variant form of Simon. The name derives from the Hebrew name Shimon, meaning 'he has heard' or 'listening.' In parts of the Netherlands and northern Germany, Siemen has historically been used as a standalone given name rather than just a variant spelling. The name carries a strong European heritage while remaining relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries. Its pronunciation (SEE-men) can sometimes cause hesitation for English speakers due to potential mispronunciations. The name has a solid, traditional quality within its native regions but offers a distinctive alternative to the more familiar Simon elsewhere.
  18. Hieronymous
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "sacred name"
    • Description:

      A name used in Germany and Holland as a form of Jerome, it's the unlikely moniker of fictional detective Hieronymous "Harry" Bosch.
  19. Benedick
    • Origin:

      Variation of Benedict, Latin
    • Meaning:

      "blessed"
    • Description:

      Stick with the original.
  20. Tiede
    • Description:

      Tiede is a masculine name of Frisian and Low German origin, primarily found in northern Germany and the Netherlands. It derives from the Germanic element 'theud' meaning 'people' or 'tribe,' which appears in many Germanic names. Historically, Tiede functioned as a shortened form of longer Germanic names containing this element. While traditional in its regions of origin, Tiede remains relatively unknown internationally. The name carries cultural significance for Frisian communities where heritage naming patterns are valued. Its simple two-syllable structure and distinctive sound offer a rare combination of brevity and uniqueness. The name projects strength and cultural rootedness without complexity.