Dutch Names for Girls

  1. Anneke
    • Origin:

      Dutch
    • Meaning:

      "grace"
    • Description:

      Dutch, Limburgish and Afrikaans diminutive of Anne.
  2. Eleonara
    • Origin:

      Italian, German, Dutch, and Polish version of Eleanor
    • Meaning:

      "bright, shining one"
    • Description:

      The usual form of Eleonara is Eleanora, with each syllable pronounced, but transposing, adding, or subtracting a vowel or syllable here or there works fine and adds to the international, feminine spin on a solid name.
  3. Amalya
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "work"
    • Description:

      Spelling variation of Amalia, rising in popularity throughout Europe.
  4. Annemieke
    • Origin:

      Dutch variation of Anne-Marie
    • Description:

      A variation on Anne-Marie, this sweet name deserves the attention of some Anglophone parents. Note that "Mieke" rhymes with "Peak-a" not "Pike-a".
  5. Doortje
    • Description:

      Doortje is a feminine Dutch name that functions as a diminutive form of Dorothea, meaning 'gift of God' in Greek. Common in the Netherlands and occasionally found in other Dutch-speaking regions, this name combines traditional roots with a distinctive cultural identity. The characteristic Dutch '-tje' ending adds a sense of endearment and affection. Pronunciation may challenge non-Dutch speakers, as the 'oo' is pronounced more like 'oh' and the 'tj' has a specific Dutch sound. Though rare outside its cultural context, Doortje carries a quaint charm and authentic connection to Dutch heritage that might appeal to parents with Dutch ancestry or those seeking a truly distinctive international name.
  6. Grietje
    • Description:

      Grietje is a feminine Dutch name, serving as the traditional Dutch diminutive form of Margaret. Pronounced roughly as 'GREET-yuh' in Dutch, the name derives from the Greek 'margarites' meaning 'pearl.' While common in the Netherlands and among Dutch communities worldwide, Grietje remains rare outside these populations, giving it a distinctive cultural character. Historically popular in the Netherlands from the 17th to 19th centuries, the name appears in Dutch masterpieces, including some of Rembrandt's portraits. Grietje has a warm, friendly quality despite potentially challenging pronunciation for non-Dutch speakers. The name carries both historical depth and cultural specificity, appealing to families with Dutch heritage or those seeking an authentic European name with traditional roots. Its diminutive nature conveys affection and warmth.
  7. Doutzen
    • Origin:

      Dutch, meaning unknown
    • Description:

      Dutch supermodel Doutzen (pronounced doubt-son) Kroes has introduced us to a name from the Netherlands that might have a hard time in an American classroom and is nowhere near as glamorous as its bearer.
  8. Karsten
    • Description:

      Karsten as a feminine name is a very unusual usage of what is traditionally a masculine name of Germanic and Scandinavian origin. Derived from the name Carsten, itself a variant of Christian, Karsten means 'follower of Christ' or 'anointed one.' While predominantly used for boys in Northern European countries, particularly Germany, Denmark, and Norway, its occasional feminine usage represents the modern trend of gender-crossing names. The feminine application is extremely rare and typically found in North America where Germanic names have sometimes been adapted beyond their traditional gender associations. Despite its strong consonants, the name has a certain melodic quality that can work for girls, though parents choosing it for a daughter are making a distinctly unconventional choice.

  9. 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.

  10. 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.
  11. 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.
  12. 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.
  13. Julitta
    • Origin:

      Dutch variation of Julia, Latin
    • Meaning:

      "youthful or sky father"
    • Description:

      This fairly obscure saint's name was chosen by Oscar-winning actress Marcia Gay Harden for one of her twins.
  14. Michielle
    • Description:

      Michielle represents a creative spelling variation of Michelle, which is the feminine form of Michel, ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Michael meaning 'who is like God?' This distinctive spelling emerged as parents sought to personalize a classic name while maintaining its familiar pronunciation. The additional 'i' adds a unique visual element. Michielle remains relatively uncommon compared to the standard Michelle, which peaked in popularity during the 1960s and 1970s. The name carries the same sophisticated French heritage as Michelle but with an individualized touch. Michielle offers the friendly nicknames Michi, Chelle, or Elle. The name projects both familiarity and uniqueness, appealing to parents who appreciate traditional names with distinctive presentations.
  15. Letja
    • Description:

      Letja is an uncommon feminine given name with possible connections to various linguistic traditions. It may be related to names like Letitia or Leticia, which derive from Latin and mean 'joy' or 'happiness.' Alternatively, it could be a variant spelling of names found in Northern European languages, particularly from Baltic or Scandinavian regions. The distinctive 'tj' combination suggests possible Dutch or Frisian influence. As a rare name with limited documented usage, Letja offers a high degree of uniqueness while maintaining a melodic, feminine quality. The name has a fresh, contemporary sound despite potential historical roots, appealing to parents seeking uncommon names that remain relatively straightforward to pronounce and spell in various linguistic contexts.

  16. Jetje
    • Origin:

      Dutch diminutive of names ending in jet
    • Description:

      Like Jette, Jetje is kind of a diminutive for a diminutive: The suffix je indicates the name is a pet form -- think Katje for Katharina --in this case of Jet, itself a short form of names such as Henriette or Mariette. An English equivalent might be Ettie.
  17. Hendrika
    • Description:

      Hendrika is a feminine Dutch name derived from the masculine Hendrik (the Dutch form of Henry), meaning 'ruler of the home' or 'estate ruler.' This feminine adaptation features the suffix '-ika,' a common Dutch feminine ending. Popular in the Netherlands and among Dutch communities worldwide, Hendrika reached its peak popularity in the early to mid-20th century but has become less common in recent decades. The name is sometimes shortened to affectionate forms like Henny, Rika, or Rieke. Hendrika carries a strong, traditional European character with its Germanic roots, offering both historical depth and a distinctive sound that sets it apart from more common feminine names in English-speaking countries.

  18. Famke
    • Origin:

      Dutch
    • Meaning:

      "little girl"
    • Description:

      Famke was introduced to this country via Dutch-born actress Famke Janssen, but is not likely to appeal to many American parents.
  19. Liesja
    • Origin:

      Dutch diminutive of Elizabeth
    • Meaning:

      "pledged to God"
    • Description:

      Also spelled Liesje, this is one of many international variations of the traditional Elizabeth.
  20. Rineke
    • Origin:

      Dutch, diminutive of Rina
    • Description:

      Rineke is a diminutive of a diminutive, which might have remained unknown outside The Netherlands were it not for the wonderful photographer Rineke Dijkstra.