Dutch Baby Names for Girls
- Jetje
Origin:
Dutch diminutive of names ending in jetDescription:
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.
- Famke
Origin:
DutchMeaning:
"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.
- Suze
Description:
Suze is a feminine name with multiple origins. It can be a diminutive of Susan or Susanne, names derived from the Hebrew Shoshana meaning 'lily' or 'rose.' Suze also exists as an independent Dutch name. The name has a bright, contemporary feel despite its traditional roots. Though not among the most common names in English-speaking countries, Suze has maintained steady usage, particularly in the Netherlands and other European countries. It offers a modern, concise alternative to longer forms while retaining a feminine elegance. The name is often associated with qualities of sweetness and vibrancy.
- Lot
Description:
Lot is an unusual feminine name with biblical origins. In the Bible, Lot was a male character, the nephew of Abraham who escaped from Sodom before its destruction. As a female name, Lot is exceptionally rare. The name derives from Hebrew, possibly meaning 'covering' or 'veil.' Despite its biblical significance for males, Lot has not gained popularity as a feminine name in modern times. Parents choosing this distinctive name might appreciate its simplicity, biblical connection, or perhaps its unique quality as a conversation starter. The name's brevity gives it a strong, concise sound when spoken.
- Jasmijn
Origin:
Dutch variation of Jasmine, PersianMeaning:
"gift from God"Description:
A Top 50 choice in the Netherlands.
- Pien
Description:
Pien is a feminine name with Dutch origins, though it also appears in Chinese culture with different meanings. In Dutch usage, Pien emerged as a diminutive form of names containing the element 'pien' or as a nickname for Josephine. It has a sweet, gentle sound in Dutch pronunciation. The name has seen modest popularity in the Netherlands since the late 20th century, appreciated for its short, modern feel while maintaining traditional roots. In Chinese contexts, the name Pien (or Pián in Pinyin) uses different characters and can have various meanings including 'graceful,' 'clever,' or 'comfortable' depending on the specific Chinese characters used. As a cross-cultural name, Pien offers simplicity and charm while working well in multiple linguistic environments, contributing to its appeal for parents seeking a distinctive yet accessible name.
- Bloem
Origin:
DutchMeaning:
"flower"Description:
A cute and bubbly word name that means "flower" in Dutch. In English-speaking countries, Bloom would be a more intuitive spelling with a similar floral meaning.
- Lize
Description:
Lize is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. It functions primarily as a short form of Elizabeth (Hebrew for "God is my oath") and is particularly popular in Dutch, Afrikaans, and some Scandinavian countries. The name is also used in French-speaking regions. Pronounced similar to "Leese" in most languages, Lize offers a modern, streamlined alternative to longer forms while maintaining connection to the rich history of Elizabeth. While uncommon in English-speaking countries, its international presence gives it sophisticated appeal. The name's brevity and strong 'z' sound create a contemporary feel, while its heritage provides historical depth. Lize combines simplicity with elegance in its compact form.
- Pleun
Origin:
DutchMeaning:
"of the sun god"Description:
Pleun is a unisex Dutch name deriving from Apollonius or Apollonia, although now it ranks far higher for girls in its native land than the original form. In 2024, it ranked in the Top 140 in The Netherlands. The name is said somewhere between "plone" (rhyming with phone) and "ploon" (rhyming with moon), but it may be worth listening to it if you're unfamiliar.
- Myrthe
Origin:
Dutch variation of MyrtleDescription:
This botanical name is one of the few Dutch names that could work outside the Netherlands, especially in Germany or Scandinavia.
- Bloeme
Origin:
Dutch, YiddishMeaning:
"flower"Description:
This delicate floral name may originate from the Dutch word for flower, bloem, or as a Dutch variant of the Yiddish Blume / Bluma. An attractive and distinct choice regardless of origin.
- Nienke
Origin:
Finnish and Dutch diminutive of KatherineMeaning:
"pure"Description:
A distinctive diminutive of Katherine, once in the Top 100 in the Netherlands during the 2000s. It remains a familiar choice there.
- Julitta
Origin:
Dutch variation of Julia, LatinMeaning:
"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.
- Klaaske
Origin:
KLAS-kuhDescription:
Klaaske is the feminine form of Klaas, a Dutch diminutive of Nicholas, with a unique and lively sound.
- Vajen
Origin:
Dutch
- Fiep
Origin:
Dutch, from GreekMeaning:
"wisdom"Description:
A cutesy Dutch diminutive of Sophia. Illustrator Fiep Westendorp (born Sophia Maria Westendorp) is a notable bearer of this name
- Laurien
Origin:
Dutch and Flemish form of Laurine or short form of Laurentien, French, LatinMeaning:
"laurel; from Laurentum"Description:
A Dutch and Flemish name that is used as either a short form of Laurentien, ultimately from Laurence or Laurentius, or as a variation of the French Laurine, itself an elaboration of Laure or Laura. In both cases, the meaning links back to laurel trees.
- Joske
Origin:
Dutch, from HebrewMeaning:
"Jehovah increases"Description:
A Dutch feminine form of Joseph, created by adding the -ke suffix to the traditionally male Jos. Joske could be a stylish European alternative if you want to honor a Joseph but Josie and Josephine aren't quite your style.
- Suus
Origin:
Dutch diminutive of Susanna, HebrewMeaning:
"lily"
- Roosje
Origin:
DutchMeaning:
"(little) rose"Description:
A sweet nickname name in the "rose" family, Roosje is a diminutive of Roos, the Dutch form of Rose.