Dutch Names that Start With G
- Gerrit
Origin:
Low German variation of GerhardDescription:
An undiscovered cousin of Garrett and Gerard. Gerrit has some merit, especially for its arty credentials as the name of several Old Master painters.
- Gijs
Origin:
Dutch short form of GilbertDescription:
Popular Dutch name Gijs, which rhymes with nice, originated as a short form of Gijsbert, which itself is a Dutch and Germanic form of Gilbert. Though in the Top 100 in The Netherlands, we don't see this emigrating beyond Amsterdam and environs.
- 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.
- 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.
- Guyon
Description:
Guyon is a masculine name of French origin, derived from the Germanic name 'Wido' (related to Guy), meaning 'wide' or 'wood.' In medieval France, it appeared in literature and noble families, sometimes associated with chivalry and knighthood. The name gained some literary recognition through Edmund Spenser's epic poem 'The Faerie Queene,' where Sir Guyon represents temperance and self-control. Throughout history, Guyon has remained uncommon but persistent in French-speaking regions. Today, it offers a distinctive alternative to more common names like Guy or Guillaume, appreciated for its elegant sound and historical depth. The name maintains an aristocratic, refined quality while being unusual enough to stand out in contemporary settings.
- 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.
- Gregoor
Description:
Gregoor is a masculine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Gregor, which itself derives from the Latin name Gregorius, meaning "watchful" or "alert." The additional 'o' gives the name a slightly different phonetic quality and visual appearance. Gregor has historical significance through figures like Pope Gregory the Great and is used across many European cultures. The Gregoor spelling may have Dutch or Germanic influences, as doubled vowels are more common in these languages. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, this spelling variation offers a distinctive international flair while maintaining the strong, classical roots of the original name.
- Gervaas
Description:
Gervaas is a masculine name of Latin origin, a variant spelling of Gervase or Gervasius. The name derives from the Latin 'gervasus,' possibly meaning 'spear servant' or 'honored with a spear.' This name has historical significance, as Saint Gervasius was an early Christian martyr from Milan in the 2nd century. Gervaas is most commonly found in Dutch-speaking regions and has medieval roots throughout Western Europe. While not extremely popular in contemporary times, it retains an air of classical dignity and historical depth. The name has a strong, distinctive sound and carries connotations of steadfastness and traditional values. This unusual spelling variation adds a unique touch to this ancient name with rich historical connections.
- Gustaff
Description:
Gustaff represents a variation of the classic name Gustav, which has Germanic origins meaning 'staff of the Goths' or 'royal staff.' This alternative spelling gives the traditional name a slightly more distinctive appearance while maintaining its strong historical connections. Gustav has been popular throughout Scandinavian countries and Germany for centuries, borne by Swedish kings and notable figures like composer Gustav Mahler. The Gustaff variant, while less common, carries the same associations of strength, leadership, and nobility. It conveys a sense of traditional masculinity blended with a touch of uniqueness through its spelling modification, appealing to parents who appreciate classical names with a subtle twist.
- Gustaaf
Description:
Gustaaf is the Dutch and Flemish variation of Gustav, a name of Swedish origin meaning 'staff of the Goths' or 'God's staff.' This name carries significant historical weight, having been borne by several Swedish kings. Primarily used in the Netherlands, Belgium, and among Dutch-speaking communities, Gustaaf emerged as a distinct spelling variant during the medieval period. The name conveys strength and dignity, with connections to Nordic heritage. While never extremely common internationally, Gustaaf has maintained steady usage in Dutch-speaking regions. It experienced its greatest popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, following patterns of many traditional Germanic names. The distinctive double 'a' spelling reflects typical Dutch orthographic patterns.
- Geerta
Description:
Geerta is a feminine name of Dutch and Frisian origin, representing the female form of Geert or Gert. These names derive from Gerard, which combines Germanic elements meaning "spear" and "brave" or "hardy." Popular in the Netherlands and other Dutch-speaking regions, Geerta carries a sense of traditional European heritage. The name has a strong, distinctive sound while maintaining feminine qualities. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, it represents a connection to Dutch cultural roots. Geerta peaked in popularity during the early to mid-20th century in its regions of origin. The name's straightforward pronunciation and spelling make it accessible despite its relative rarity in global contexts.