The Netherlands may be a small country, but it has most definitely made itself known all across the globe. It is a country of philosophers, architects, painters, flowers, and art, all spectacular and ravishing.
Just like the country’s rich and mesmerizing culture, the Netherlands are known for their unique and striking names. Dutch names are creative and meaningful and make a big mark on those who encounter them. Each name is mesmerizing and holds a poignant, poetic significance.
Whether you want to pay tribute to your heritage and roots or honor an extraordinary country and culture, these Dutch names would make for stellar picks for your extraordinary bundle of joy.
Dutch Names For Your Baby
Check out our collection of beautiful, striking, and intriguing Dutch names for your baby boy or baby girl.
Dutch Names For Boys
- AART
Your baby boy will fly high through life like an eagle. A wonderful name you can give him among Dutch names for boys is Aart. This Dutch moniker means “like an eagle.” Some say it is also a short form of “Arnold” and carries the meaning of “strong and powerful.” Among its well-known namesakes are Dutch-Canadian painter Aart Kemink and U.S. TV Host Art Linkletter.
- AMBROOS
Ambroos is the Dutch form of the popular boy name “Ambrose,” which comes from “ambrosios,” a word that means “immortal.” It’s a fantastic pick among Dutch names and one that would be a powerful choice for your little boy.
- BARTEL
A known namesake is U.S. politician Bartel J. Jonkman. Bartel is the Dutch variation of “Bartholomew,” a Biblical name that comes from an Aramaic word meaning “having many furrows.” Bartel may also mean “farmer’s son” and “from the barley farm.” Among Bartel’s alternative variations are “Bartil,” “Bart,” and “Bartolomeus.”
- BRAM
This name is the Dutch variation of “Abraham,” a Biblical name that means “father of multitudes.” It is a name that’s got a lot of charm packed into a one-syllable moniker. Famous bearers of the name include Dutch athlete Bram Evans and WWII Flying Ace and fighter pilot Bram van der Stock. Bram is a stellar choice among Dutch names for boys for those looking for short, impactful names for your baby boy.
- BAS
For Dutch names for boys that are very short and very cool, check out Bas. This one-syllable, three-letter-moniker is the diminutive of “Bastiaan” or “Sebastian.” It is among the more trendy and stylish names in the Netherlands and is, in fact, in the top 10 boys’ names there.
- CAS
Still, another good option is Cas on the topic of Dutch names for boys that are very short and create a big impact. This name may only have three letters, but it is very powerful in its own right. Cas means “imperial” and “treasurer.” Its alternative variations are “Cass” and “Caz.” Cas counts American politician Cas M. Robinson and businessman and politician Cas Walker among its known namesakes.
- COEN
If you are leaning towards Dutch names for boys that are on the shorter side and have a very cool sound about them, a fantastic pick would be Coen. Coen is the shorter form of “Coenrad,” which is the Dutch variation for “Conrad.” Coen means “bold advisor.” You can also opt for its alternate spelling, “Koen,” for a more unique touch.
- DIEDERIK
Diederik is the Dutch variation for the name “Theodoric.” It is a stately name that holds the meaning of “the people’s ruler” and would make for a stellar choice for your future leader. Diederik’s famous namesakes are Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies Diederik Durven and Dutch Olympic rower Diederik Rudolf Simon.
- DIRK
Do you like the name “Diederik” but find it a bit too long? A great alternative among Dutch names is Dirk. This Dutch and German moniker also has the meaning of “the people’s ruler.” It is also the name of a small sword! Dirk was quite popular in the United States back in the 1950s and 1960s. A very famous contemporary namesake is former NBA player Dirk Nowitzki.
- ELMO
A wonderful option would be Elmo for Dutch names for boys with an undeniable charm about them. This name is of Dutch and German roots and carries the meaning of “famous” and “protector.” Saint Elmo was the common name of Saint Erasmus, a Christian saint, and martyr who was the patron saint of sailors. Restaurants, books, and towns have been named after him. Heard about Saint Elmo’s fire? It is believed that this is the glow accompanying the electric discharge from objects during thunderstorms. Of course, Elmo is also associated to Sesame Street as the name of one of its most popular and beloved characters!
- FLORIS
A floral touch in masculine names always elevates their grace and elegance. Among Dutch names for boys, a good example of this is Floris. This name carries the meaning of “blossoming flower” and can also mean “prosperous.” Floris is the Dutch male variation of “Florence” and counts former Count of Holland Floris IV and Dutch nobleman and statesman Floris Adriaan van Hall among its namesakes.
- GERRIT
This name has the meaning of “brave” and “ruler with a spear.” It is the unique alternative to its more well-known variations like “Garrett,” “Gerald,” and “Harold.” Famous bearers of the name are American baseball player Gerrit Alan Cole and Dutch politician Gerrit Zalm. If you are looking for Dutch names that connote courage and bravery, a strong choice would be Gerrit.
- HANS
For those on the lookout for Dutch names that are majestic and graceful, a standout choice would be Hans. This short Dutch and German moniker holds the meaning of “gracious God.” It is a highly appealing name that exudes an effortless cool. Variations of the name are “Hanz,” “Hanzel,” “Hansel,” “Hanns,” and “Hannes.” Famous bearers of this name Are Danish children’s writer Hans Christian Andersen and German and American nuclear physicist and Nobel Prize winner Hans Albrecht Bethe. Of course, Hans also has a Disney connection as the name of a character in the movie Frozen.
- HENDRICK
Hendrick is a name that has a certain patriotic charm about it. This moniker is Dutch and Scandinavian in origin and has the meaning of “homeland.” A notable namesake is the Dutch Golden Age painter, and founder of Dutch marine is Hendrick Cornelisz Vroom. Hendrick has many alternative spellings and variations such as “Heinz,” “Hank,” “Henry,” “Harry,” and “Enric.”
- ISSAC
Your baby boy is the one who fills your world with incomparable joy and laughter. A superb option for him among Dutch names for boys is Issac. This Dutch and Hebrew moniker holds the meaning of “full of laughter.” It is the Dutch form of the popular name “Isaac.” Known name bearers are English mathematician, physicist, astronomer, and theologian Isaac Newton and U.S. clothing designer Isaac Mizrahi. The name has Biblical roots as well, as, in the Bible, it is the name of Abraham and Sarah’s beloved son.
- JOHAN
Your baby boy is the most wonderful gift from above. Of Dutch names for boys, one that sweetly captures this is Johan. The name holds the meaning of “gift from God.” Its well-known name bearers are Swedish hockey player Johan Franzen and Norwegian patent clerk and inventor Johan Vaaler. One of the name’s offshoots, “John,” has been among the most popular names in the United States since at least the year 1900 and remains so to this day.
- JOOST
Being noble and just are things that you wish for your son to be as he grows up. Why not give him a name like Joost? This Dutch name carries the meaning of “just.” It is an unusual name that makes an impression and is the rarer alternative to names like “Justin” and “Justice.” Joost was derived from “Jodocus,” which is a name that can be traced back to 7th century Breton saint St. Judoc. Known namesakes are Dutch Vice-Admiral Joost BAnkert and Archbishop of Cape Town Joost de Blank. Joost is pronounced “Yoost” and is a standout pick for your baby.
- KEES
A calming presence bearing strength in character is something you know your little boy will become as he grows up. Give him a name like Kees. Among Dutch names for boys, this one carries the meaning of “calm” and “strong-willed.” It is the shorter, Dutch variation of the name “Cornelius” and is armed with a distinct charm. Notable namesakes are Dutch composer and teacher Kees van Baaren, Dutch reformist educator Kees Boeke, and Dutch artist Kees van Dongen.
- KERSTAN
You wish to raise your little one to be a man of strong faith. A beautiful name you can choose for him among Dutch names for boys is Kerstan. This name holds the meaning of “follower of Christ” and also means “anointed.” A derivation of this name is the more traditional “Christopher.”
- LARS
You know your baby boy will be successful and blessed in his many endeavors all throughout his life. A winning pick among Dutch names for boys that will be fitting is the name, Lars. This moniker has the meaning of “victorious” and “crowned with laurel.” Known bearers of this name are Norwegian shipowner Lars Christensen and TV director and producer Lars Von Trier. Its variations include “Larry,” “Larson,” and “Lawrence.”
- MARKUS
Handsome and undeniably appealing, Markus is a standout pick among Dutch names for boys. It is the Dutch variation for “Mars,” which is the Roman God of fertility name. A charming, unconventional nickname or alternative would be “Marquee.”
- PIM
Pim is a name that has an adorable appeal about it partnered with a mighty meaning. This moniker carries the meaning of “resolute protection” and is among the top 100 Dutch names for boys in the Netherlands.
- RUBEN
Having a baby boy is something that you have long been hoping for and is an answered prayer indeed. A poignant name you can choose for him among Dutch names for boys is Ruben. This name of Dutch and Hebrew origin holds the meaning of “behold, a son.” Famous namesakes include American actor Ruben Santiago-Hudson, U.S. singer Ruben Studdard, and Flemish artist Sir Peter Paul Rubens.
- SANDER
If you like the name “Alexander,” a good option among Dutch names for boys is Sander. Sander is the diminutive Dutch form of “Alexander” and is a less common alternative. It has the magnificent meaning of “defending men.” A notable namesake is a journalist and broadcaster, Sander Vanocur.
- SCHYLER
If you like the name “Skyler” but would like something a little more uncommon, check out Schyler. This Dutch moniker is the alternative form of “Skyler” and means “scholar.” It can also mean “protected.” A well-known namesake is actor, director, and writer Schyler Tillett.
- STIJN
Of Dutch names for boys, Stijn is among the more intricate and complex. This intriguing name is the Dutch short form for both “Augustin” and “Constantin.” Stijn enjoys quite a bit of popularity in the Netherlands but is very rare elsewhere, perhaps because of challenges in pronunciation and spelling.
- SVEN
As you look at Dutch names for boys, Sven stands out with its mixture of strength and effortless swag. This short, attractive moniker comes from the Saviars. This ancient Swedish tribe gave the name to Svealand, in later years more known as Sweden. Sven, of course, also has a strong Disney connection as the name of a beloved character in the Frozen film series.
- THIJS
If you adore the name “Matthew” but would like something more unusual and striking, a stellar option would be Thijs. This name is the Dutch short form of “Matthew,” though it sounds much different.
- TIMO
For religious parents who wish to raise their child to honor God and His Word, a lovely name you can choose for your little one among Dutch names for boys is Timo. This name is of Dutch, German, and Greek roots and means “honoring God.” It is said to be very popular in Amsterdam. Timo is a striking short form of the classic moniker “Timothy.” Namesakes include German racing driver Timo Glock and former Major League Baseball outfielder Timo Perez.
- VAN
Another great choice for those looking for short and cool-sounding Dutch names for boys is Van. This three-letter, one-syllable name carries the meaning of “forest,” which makes it an ideal pick for nature-lovers parents. Among its alternative variations are “Vahn,” “Vaughn,” “Donovan,” and “Vander.” Famous name bearers are American NFL player Van Tiffin and English composer Ralph Vaughn Williams. The name Van saw a rise in popularity after the release of the hit film Van Wilder.
Dutch Names For Girls
- ALEID
Aleid is a wonderful option for those looking for Dutch names for girls with a touch of nobility. This name is the Dutch form of the name “Adelaide” and carries the meaning of “noble,” “graceful,” and “from a noble family.” Alternative spellings and variations of the name include “Aleidy,” “Adelheid,” “Adelais,” and “Adela.”
- ANIKA
Your little girl is the epitome of sweetness and gracefulness. A dainty, lovely name you can choose for her among Dutch names for girls is Anika. This name is of Dutch, Hebrew, Sanskrit, and Nordic origins and holds the meaning of “sweet face,” “favor,” and “grace.” Famous name bearers are American singer Anika Paris and American singer and actress Anika Noni Rose. Anika is among the 108 monikers that were given to Hindi Goddess Durga.
- ANNELIES
This Dutch and German moniker for girls has the meaning of “mercy” and “grace.” It is the Dutch combination of the names “Anne” and “Liese.” Notable name bearers are German-Australian model Anneliese Seubert and Dutch-American actress Anneliese Louise van der Pol. The full name of Anne Frank is Annelies Marie Frank.
Why not consider the name Annelies for your baby girl who will grow up in grace and compassion?
- ARABELLA
This name is of Dutch, Latin, German, and English roots and holds the meaning of “beautiful lion” as well as “prayerful.” A notable namesake is Arabella Mansfield, who was the first female lawyer in America. Of Dutch names for girls, Arabella is a splendid choice for your fierce and beautiful little princess. Arabella has many equally lovely variations, among which are “Arabelle,” “Belle,” “Bella,” and “Orabelle.”
- BEATRIX
The one who brings great joy into your life is your own beautiful blessing of a baby girl. Of Dutch names for girls, Beatrix signifies that sentiment. This name of Dutch, German, English, and French origins holds the meaning of “blessed,” “traveler,” and “delivers joy.” Known name bearers are English author Beatrix Potter and the Queen of Netherlands during 1980-2013, Beatrix Wilhelmina Armgard.
- BETJE
For Dutch names for girls that are unusual and striking in form and meaning, why not consider Betje. This name makes an impact because of its unusual spelling and because of its powerful meaning, “God is abundant.” Betje does have more traditional variations like “Elise,” “Liese,” and “Lisa.”
- BRANDY
If you seek Dutch names for girls with a more modern vibe, Brandy would be a great option. Brandy is a name that is of Dutch, American, and English roots. It carries the meaning of “burnt wine.” This name rose in popularity in part due to actress, singer, and record producer Brandy Norwood and actress Brandy Ledford.
- DAEL
Of all Dutch names for girls, Dael has a mysterious loveliness about it. A famous namesake is an American playwright and actress, Dale Orlandersmith. This name is of Dutch and English origins and has the meaning of “small valley.” A more mainstream variation of this name is “Dale,” which is popular in the United States.
- DOORTJE
Doortje is a Dutch variation of the name “Dorothea.” It is a romantic and rare name that holds the wonderful meaning of “gift of God.” Doortje is distinct and memorable and would make for a lovely choice for your baby girl.
- ELSJE
“Elsa” is a beautiful name that has skyrocketed in popularity due to the beloved Disney film series Frozen. If you simply adore that name but are also maybe looking for something a bit more uncommon and rare, a superb pick would be Elsje. Elsje is the Dutch form of “Elsa.” The name means “pledged to God.”
- EVI
This one-syllable, three-letter-moniker is of Dutch, German, Hebrew, and Dutch origins and has the meaning of “life.” Famous bearers of this name are Greek-Austrian fashion model Evi Adam and “The Debtors” film director Evi Quaid. For Dutch names for very short and sweet girls, a splendid choice would be Evi.
- FAMKE
Among Dutch names for girls, Famke is one that is absolutely mesmerizing. This mysteriously captivating name carries the meaning of “little girl,” making it a fitting choice for your baby daughter. Famke entered the mainstream and rose in popularity due to model and actress Famke Janssen, who portrayed Jean Gray / Phoenix in the live-action X-Men films.
- FENNA
If a peaceful and tranquil nature is something you wish for your little girl, give her a name like Fenna. This Dutch name brings with it the meaning of “peace.” Alternative variations of this name are “Faina,” “Fenja,” and “Fenne.” A known bearer of this name is Belgian professional racing cyclist Fenna Vanhoutte.
- GRIETJE
If you are a fan of finding unique variations of classic, traditional names, a spectacular choice among Dutch names for girls is Grietje. Grietje is the Dutch variation of the name “Greta,” which is a diminutive of the conventional name “Margaret.” Grietje means “pearl,” which is a classic, wonderful contrast to the name’s exotic appeal.
- GUSTA
For Dutch names that are both aggressive and pleasing, a superb option would be Gusta. This name is of Dutch and German origin and carries the meaning of “sublime.” Adding to the name’s layered appeal is the fact that in Spanish, the word “gusta” actually means “it pleases me.” A well-known namesake is Dutch actress Gusta Chrispijn-Mulder.
- HANNIE
For those who fancy the name “Johanna” but would like something a little more casual and informal, check out the name Hannie. This delightful name is the diminutive Dutch variation of “Johanna” and means “compassionate,” which is a great name for your kind-hearted little lady.
- HAVEN
If you like the sound of the name “Heaven” but would a name with a less strong and heavy connotation, a good option among Dutch names for girls is Haven. This name carries the meaning of “port.” It was made popular by actress Jessica Alba when she gave this name to your daughter.
- ILSE
Your bundle of joy is God’s fulfilled promise and answered prayer. A fantastic choice among Dutch names for girls that captures that wonder is Ilse. This name of Dutch and German roots has the meaning of “God’s promise.” It can also mean “pledged to God.” Famous namesakes are Dutch singer/songwriter Ilse DeLange, Austrian writer Ilse Aichinger, and German photographer Ilse Bing.
- LARA
This name’s graceful simplicity belies its complex collection of meanings. Lara is a name of Dutch, German, English, and Russian origins. It can mean “laurel wreath,” “citadel,” “seagull,” “famous,” “bright,” “protection,” “cheerful,” and “graceful.” For Dutch names that have a multitude of roots and meanings, a beautiful option would be Lara. Famous name bearers are British artist, children’s author and illustrator Lara Jones, and American actress and producer Lara Flynn Boyle. Lara is a name that has a firm place in pop culture because of the sultry, popular video game character Lara Croft of Tomb Raider.
- MARIAN
This name of Dutch, French, English, and Hebrew origin has the meaning of “drop of the sea,” “mercy,” and “grace.” It was a top 100 baby girl name in the U.S. from 1912 to 1934. Marian’s famous namesakes are British biologist and professor Marian Ellina Stamp Dawkins and American rights activist Marian Wright Edelman. Among Dutch names for girls, Marian is one with a melodious charm and poignant meaning.
- MARIT
Attractive and with an intricate charm about it, Marit is a stellar pick among Dutch names for girls. This unusual and pretty name is of Dutch, Swedish, and Norwegian origin and holds the meaning of “pearl.” Famous name bearers are Crown Princess of Norway Mette-Marit Tjessem Hoiby and Dutch politician Marit Elisabeth Maij. Among its more conventional variations are “Margaret,” “ Marita,” “Miriam,” “Marisan,” and “Martha.”
- MAUD
Of Dutch names for girls, Maud is one that embodies courage and strength. This name of Dutch, French, and English roots has the meaning of “strong battle maiden” and “powerful warrior.” It is the Dutch form of “Matilda.” Notable namesakes are Maud Charlotte Mary Victoria of Wales, and Maud Elizabeth Daphne Marina Windsor.
- NOA
Gentle and enchanting, Noa is a standout when it comes to Dutch names for girls. This short, three-lettered name’s appeal lies in its simplicity and graceful nature. It is a Dutch and Hebrew name that holds the meaning of “movement” and “motion.” A notable namesake is Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s daughter, Noa Netanyahu. Noa is among the top 100 names for baby girls in Spain.
- NORA
Famous namesakes are an American film director and producer Nora Ephron and American singer-songwriter, Norah Jones. Nora is a name that captivates and allures. This name of Dutch, English, German and Swedish roots carries the meaning of “light.” It was a popular name in America in the early 1900s and is now seeing a resurgence. Variations of Nora include “Noor,” “Eleanor,” “Ellen,” and “Nori.”
- SANNE
For parents who are leaning towards the name “Susanne” but would like something shorter and less common, check out the name Sanne. Sanne is the Dutch form of “Susanne” and is a very popular name for girls in the Netherlands.
- SKYLAR
Education is a very important thing, and to value it is something you will instill in your baby girl. Give her a name like Skylar. This name of Dutch and English roots has the meaning of “scholar.” Skylar has steadily grown in popularity since the 1990s in the U.S. and, as of 2020, is at #63 on the name charts. Well-known name bearers are American pop singers Skylar Laine and Skylar Star Stecker.
- SOFIE
Your little one will grow up not just in beauty but in intelligence as well. Among Dutch names for girls, a great pick for her would be Sofie. This beautiful moniker is of Dutch, Czech, Greek, and Scandinavian roots and has the meaning of “wise.” Sofie and its equally lovely variations such as “Sophia,” “Sofia,” and “Sophie,” are among the popular names for girls in the U.S. Famous name bearers are Norwegian-born actresses Sofie Cappelen, British television presenter Sofie Allsopp, and American actress Sophia Bush.
- TESS
Among Dutch names for girls, Tess is one that has a lot of substance, strength, and style. This appealing moniker is of Dutch, Latin, Greek, and English origins and carries the meaning of “hunter,” “harvester,” and “guardian.” Alternate variations include “Teresa,” “Tessa,” “Tessie,” “Thess,” and “Tina.” Popular namesakes are American singer-songwriter Tess Wiler, plus-size model Tess Holiday, author Tess Gerritsen, and American actress Tessa Thompson.
- VERENA
You wish for your baby girl to grow up with integrity and stay true to herself. A wonderful picks name you can give her among Dutch baby names for girls is Verena. This elegant name of Dutch and German origins has the meaning of “true” and “integrity.” Famed name bearers are American model Verena Mei and former Saint Lucian cricketer Verena Felicien.
- WILMA
This name is of Dutch, English, and German origins and holds the meaning of “resolute protection” as well as “desire.” Famous namesakes are American Olympic sprinter Wilma Golden Rudolph and American actress (Wilma) Jean Cooper. Of Dutch names for girls, Wilma exudes passion and fiercely protective nature.
Our list of Dutch baby names is certainly all of the unique and captivating choices for your little one. We hope these Dutch baby names inspire you!