Dutch Baby Names for Boys
- Vik
Origin:
Variation of Viktor, Scandinavian, RussianMeaning:
"conqueror"Description:
This short and striking Viktor nickname is more popular than the fuller form in the Netherlands, where it currently ranks in the Top 200.
- Tygo
Origin:
Dutch form of TychoDescription:
This Dutch form of the ancient Greek saints' name Tycho is in the Top 100 in The Netherlands. While largely unknown in the English-speaking world, it's got a cool sound and ancient roots, which equals a winning choice.
- Joas
Description:
Joas is a masculine name with biblical origins, representing a variant of Joash, who was a king of Judah in the Old Testament. The name derives from Hebrew elements meaning 'fire of Yahweh' or 'God has given.' Joas appears in various forms across different cultures, including Spanish, Portuguese, and Dutch linguistic traditions. Though relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, it maintains popularity in parts of Europe and among families seeking biblical names with historical significance. The name's straightforward pronunciation (JO-as) and short form make it appealing for contemporary use while still carrying ancient heritage. Joas conveys strength and divine connection, qualities that have contributed to its enduring, if modest, usage through centuries.
- Vic
Origin:
Diminutive of Victor, LatinMeaning:
"conqueror"Description:
This short form of classic Victor is popular in its own right in Belgium and the Netherlands.
- Daley
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"assembly, gathering"Description:
Much stronger than Dale for a boy.
- Olivier
Origin:
FrenchMeaning:
"olive tree"Description:
More and more frequently heard as the Gallic version of Oliver, Olivier could be seen as a tribute to the great British actor, Sir Laurence O.
- Mees
Origin:
Dutch diminutive of BartholomeusMeaning:
"son of Talmai"Description:
Popular Dutch name that reflects the short, clipped style in vogue in that country. Bart, another short form of Bartholomeus and Bartholomew, is also popular there.
- Cas
Origin:
Short form of Casper, PersianMeaning:
"Imperial"Description:
This short-but-strong name is popular for boys in The Netherlands. While Cass is usually a female name in the U.S., it feels just as right for boys.
- Melle
Description:
Melle is a masculine name with diverse potential origins. In Germanic language traditions, it may be related to names containing the element 'mel' meaning 'council' or 'assembly.' In Frisian regions of the Netherlands, Melle has been used as a male name historically. It could also derive from place names in northern Europe. The name has a simple, strong quality with its two syllables and straightforward pronunciation. While uncommon in most English-speaking countries, Melle sees some usage in parts of northern Europe, particularly the Netherlands and Germany. The name's brevity gives it a contemporary feel despite its traditional roots, making it appealing for those seeking a masculine name that is both distinctive and unpretentious.
- Bas
Origin:
Dutch, diminutive of Bastiaan and SebastianMeaning:
"person from the city of Sebastia"Description:
Bas is a fashionable name in its own right in the Netherlands, where it's been in the Top 10. Used throughout Europe, it may have a future here as a straightforward-but-charming nickname name. Baz is another, similar and more appealing possibility.
- Dani
Origin:
Diminutive of DanielDescription:
Seen as feminine in English-speaking countries, Dani is a Top 100 boy name in the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Bosnia & Herzegovina.
- Lasse
Origin:
Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, and Finnish form of Laurence, LatinMeaning:
"from Laurentum; bay laurel"Description:
Well used throughout The Netherlands, Germany, Norway, and Denmark, Lasse is a variation of Laurence, typically used as a nickname for the related Lars. While English speakers may be tempted to say "lass" or "lassie", the correct pronunciation would LA-suh in Denmark, LAHS-seh in Norway and Finland, and LA-seh in Sweden and Germany.
- Jens
Origin:
Scandinavian variation of Johannes or JohnDescription:
Short but substantial Nordic name that travels well -- although it runs the risk of being confused with all the feminine Jen names.
- Ties
Origin:
DutchMeaning:
"gift of God"Description:
Diminutive of Matthijs, the Dutch form of Matthew.
- Johannes
Origin:
German, Dutch, Scandinavian, and Estonian variation of JohnMeaning:
"God is gracious"Description:
An Old World name that might have a chance to rise again with other ancient and worldly forms. Be sure to say yo-HAHN-es.
- Pepijn
Origin:
Dutch form of PepinMeaning:
"awe-inspiring"Description:
Pepijn, with its emphasis on the second syllable pronounced with a long i to rhyme with pine, is in the Dutch Top 100. Clipped, energetic-sounding nickname names such as Pep and Pip are stylish in The Netherlands. Could that translate to the English speaking world? Stay tuned.
- Kaj
Origin:
DanishMeaning:
"earth"Description:
Kaj is a name that looks great on paper, but while it's pronounced with to rhyme with rye, it is sure to be pronounced by most people to rhyme with "raj" or, much worse, "Madge".
- Sepp
Description:
Sepp is a masculine German and Austrian name that originated as a diminutive form of Josef (Joseph). It's particularly common in Bavaria and throughout Alpine regions of Europe. The name carries strong cultural associations with rural Alpine traditions and is often perceived as earthy, strong, and traditional. Despite its short form, Sepp stands as an independent given name in Germanic regions. The name gained some international recognition through notable bearers like Sepp Herberger, the German football coach who led West Germany to victory in the 1954 World Cup, and more recently, Sepp Blatter, the former FIFA president. While uncommon outside German-speaking regions, the name's brevity and distinctive sound make it an accessible option for parents seeking a name with authentic European heritage.
- Luuk
Origin:
Dutch diminutive of Lucas, LatinMeaning:
"man from Lucania"Description:
The most popular short form of Lucas in the Netherlands, the other being Loek.
- Jari
Origin:
Short form of Jalmari, FinnishMeaning:
"helmet protector"Description:
Sleek modern short form of a classic Scandinavian name.