The Dutch nation created unique Dutch girl names, Amsterdam – the city of tulips, and feathered their landscapes in beautifully ingenious manmade creations. Their foresight and creative genius inspired a new dynamic that’s perfectly infused into every Dutch female name in appreciation of their most cherished treasure.
To the Dutch, female names should be short and sound like the chime of a finely tuned bell but must also carry the essence of good virtues. With this formula, so many beautiful Dutch names for girls have paraded their elegance on the world stage.
100 Beautiful Dutch Names for Girls
Get ready to discover your future daughter’s name captured in this wondrous list of outstanding Dutch girl names.
Adrie
Adrie is a nice short name that is easy to pronounce. The meaning of “dark” refers to an olive or bronze skin tone- perfect if you hope your little girl likes to soak up the sun.
- Origin: Latin, Dutch
- Meaning: From the Adriatic, dark
- Pronunciation: Ah-dree
- Variations: Ardreana, Adreanna, Adriana, Adriane, Adrienne
- Popularity: Adrie is a widely used name in western countries but is not very popular.
Aleid
Aleid is a Dutch girl name short for Adelaide, typically used in history among royalty and for saints. Aleid is a soft feminine name that is unique in modern times.
- Origin: Dutch, Germanic
- Meaning: Noble, graceful
- Pronunciation: Ah-liet
- Variations: Aleidy, Adaliz, Adelais, Adela
- Popularity: Aleid is not a common name.
Aleta
Aleta is the Greek mythological goddess of truth, and the various meanings in different languages all suggest a noble winged goddess. The syllables of Aleta give the name a pure tone that comes across as open and truthful.
- Origin: Greek, Dutch
- Meaning: Of noble kin, truthful, winged
- Pronunciation: Ah-le-tah
- Variations: Aletta, Alethia
- Namesakes: Aletta Jacobs, the first female doctor in the Netherlands.
- Popularity: Aleta was popular between the 1940s and 1960s but has slipped off the radar.
Amalia
Amalia is very popular among present-day royalty in Europe. This trend began in the 18th-century with Anna Amalia, a Duchess and staunch patron of the arts. The meaning of Amalia carries a good life lesson- that nothing is achieved without hard work.
- Origin: Hebrew, Germanic, Italian
- Meaning: Work
- Pronunciation: Ah-ma-lee-ah
- Variations: Amalya
- Namesakes: Princess Catharina Amalia of Orange, the current heir to the Dutch throne.
- Popularity: Amalia was ranked the 570th most popular girl’s name in 2020 in the U.S. and is also widely popular across Europe.
Angelien
Angelien is a beautiful name meaning “angel.” In the Zoroastrian and Abrahamic religions, angels are benevolent spirits who act as guardian spirits or as guiding influences. Angelien could be a great name choice for your daughter.
- Origin: Greek, Hellenic
- Meaning: Angel, grace
- Pronunciation: An-ge-lean
- Variations: Angela, Angelika, Angelique
- Popularity: Angelien is fairly popular in Southern Africa and the Netherlands but rare elsewhere.
Anika
This cute Dutch girl’s name has a lot of punch. What baby girl doesn’t have a sweet face? With such a heart-warming meaning, Anika deserves a place on your shortlist.
- Origin: Dutch, Hebrew, Nordic
- Meaning: Grace, favor, sweet face
- Pronunciation: Ah-ni-kah
- Variations: Anniki, Anaca, Annika, Ann, Aneka, Anneke, Annie, Anki
- Namesakes: Anika (born Annika Henderson), a British-German singer-songwriter and poet.
- Popularity: Anika is a reasonably popular name across the globe.
Anki
Anki is unusual because in Sumerian it means universe, and when the name Anki is split in two, “An” means “sky god” and “ki” means “earth god”. Anki means “God has favored me,” which is such a profoundly powerful meaning and will serve to guide your daughter through life.
- Origin: Dutch, Greek,
- Meaning: God has favored me
- Popularity: Anki is a fairly common name across the northern hemisphere.
Anneliese
Anneliese is a combination of the Dutch names Anna and Liese, which means “grace + oath.” Annaliese is an old-school traditional name, yet it has appeal in modern society.
- Origin: Latin, German, Dutch
- Meaning: Graced with God’s bounty
- Pronunciation: Ann-e-liese
- Variations: Annalisa, Annalise
- Namesakes: Anneliese Louise van der Pol, a Dutch-American actress and singer.
- Popularity: Anneliese is a fairly popular name across western countries, with the variant Annalise being more popular.
Annemie
Annemie is a pretty name with a strong religious meaning that shows appreciation and understanding. If you’re looking for a unique option among our Dutch girl names, this may be the one.
- Origin: Dutch, Germanic
- Meaning: God has favored me, grace, mercy
- Pronunciation: An-ne-mee
- Variations: Annamay, Annamae, Annamie, Annamaria, Annemarie
- Popularity: Annemie is an uncommon name across the globe.
Anouk
Anouk has a charming sound and is the Dutch and French version of the name Anna. In recent years, it’s been in the spotlight, with several celebrities sporting Anouk as their first name, either given at birth or chosen later in life.
- Origin: Hebrew, Dutch, French
- Meaning: Grace, God has favored me
- Pronunciation: An-nouk
- Variations: Anna, Anouck
- Namesakes: Anouk Aimee (born Nicole Françoise Florence Dreyfus), a French actress.
- Popularity: Anouk is very popular in Germany, Switzerland, and the Netherlands.
Arabella
Arabella is a common variant of the Italian name Isabella. The meaning may also include “beautiful” thanks to “bella” at the end of Arabella. Arabella sounds stately and dignified, and the nickname “Bella” gives you that down-to-earth feeling.
- Origin: Latin, Scottish
- Meaning: Yielding to prayer
- Pronunciation: Ah-rah-bel-lah
- Variations: Isabella
- Namesakes: Arabella Mansfield (born Belle Aurelia), the first American woman to become a lawyer.
- Popularity: In 2020, Arabella was ranked the 202nd most popular name in the United States and is also very popular in Scotland, England, and other European countries.
Aya
Judging by the many meanings of Aya, it’s fair to assume that this gorgeous name has bridged both cultures and religions in every corner of the world. Aya was an Akkadian goddess of dawn and the wife of Shamash, the sun god. This old Sumerian name still has a strong beating heart in our modern world.
- Origin: Arabic, Hebrew, Japanese
- Meaning: Colourful, bird, sign, dawn, sword, wonderful, amazing, miracle, verse, goddess, music, melody, design
- Pronunciation: Ah-yah
- Variations: Aja
- Namesakes: Aya Korem, an Israeli pop/rock singer and songwriter.
- Popularity: Aya is widely popular all over the world.
Beatrix
Beatrix is derived from Viatrix, the feminine form of the Latin name Viator which means “traveller.” The Latin word “beatus,” meaning “blessed,” influenced the spelling of Beatrix. This awesome Dutch female name is a favorite among royalty and will make your baby girl feel special.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: She who brings happiness, blessed
- Pronunciation: Bea-trice
- Variations: Beatrice, Beatriz
- Namesakes: Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, who reigned until 2013.
- Popularity: Beatrix is widely popular across western countries.
Bente
Bente is the feminine form of Benedict but is widely accepted as a unisex name and is mostly used for girls. The meaning of Bente reflects deep emotions of happiness and warmth that complement the gift of a baby girl so well.
- Origin: Latin, Danish
- Meaning: Full of joy, blessed
- Pronunciation: Ben-tah
- Popularity: Bente recently ranked among the top 50 names in Germany, Belgium, Spain, and the Netherlands but is uncommon in English-speaking countries.
Betje
Betje is a sweet Dutch girl’s name that perfectly captures your baby girl as a promise from God. Several offshoots of the name, such as Betty, Beth, Elise, and Lisa, are very popular in other countries.
- Origin: Dutch, Hebrew
- Meaning: God is abundant, promise of God
- Pronunciation: Bet-jeh
- Variations: Betty
- Popularity: Betje is fairly popular in the Netherlands but less prevalent in other countries.
Bibi
Bibi sounds like a vocal warm-up, but there is a serious touch to this melodic name as well. Bibi is a respectful title for women in South Asia and refers to a “lady” across other nations and cultures.
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: Lady of the house, delight, life
- Pronunciation: Bee-bee
- Popularity: Bibi is a widely used name across the world.
Brandy
Brandy stems from the Dutch word “brandewijn,” meaning “burnt wine”, which relates to the color of this alcoholic drink once distilled. It’s also presumed to be the feminine version of Brandon. Either way, Brandy is a catchy name with a gorgeous modern flair.
- Origin: Dutch, English
- Meaning: Burnt wine, a woman wielding a sword
- Pronunciation: Bran-dee
- Variations: Brandi
- Namesakes: Brandy Ledford, an American actress and model.
- Popularity: Brandy became popular in the 1970s and 80s and has been widely used in western countries ever since.
Brechtje
Brechtje is the feminine version of Brecht. The “tje” at the end of Brechtje is a term of endearment that means “small, little, petite, or fragile”. The suffix “tje” in Dutch or “tjie” in Afrikaans is often added to words for politeness or endearment. Brechtje is a charming name for a baby girl as the suffix is always pronounced softly.
- Origin: Dutch, Germanic
- Meaning: Bringer of joy, bright, light, shining one
- Pronunciation: Bre-chee
- Popularity: Brechtje is fairly popular in the Netherlands, Namibia, and South Africa.
Britt
Britt is a shortened version of the Scandinavian name Birgitta and is not derived from Brittany as many would believe. As an Old Norse girl’s name, Britt is a trendy modern name that has never been considered old-fashioned.
- Origin: Old Norse
- Meaning: Rescuer, saver, exalted one
- Variations: Brit
- Popularity: Britt was rated the 140th most popular name in the Netherlands in 2015 and is pretty common in most western countries.
Cato
Cato is a widely used girl’s name in the Netherlands and is a shortened version of Catharina and forms of Katherine. The sound of Cato is pleasing to the ear in much the same way as the sight of your baby daughter will please your soul.
- Origin: Latin, Dutch
- Meaning: Good judgment, wise
- Popularity: Cato is widely used in English-speaking countries across the world.
Cornelia
Cornelia is the feminine version of Cornelius and was considered the epitome of womanly virtue in Roman times. Cornelia remains a sophisticated and elegant name that will serve your daughter well as she navigates life’s many roads.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Horn, strong-willed, wise
- Popularity: Cornelia is a widely used name and was ranked the 152nd most popular name in the Netherlands in 2015 and 98th in Sweden in 2021.
Dael
Dael is a sweet Dutch girl’s name, perfect for nature lovers out there! A valley often refers to a green fertile safe haven that offers peace and tranquillity, which may perfectly define the life you wish for your daughter.
- Origin: Dutch, English
- Meaning: Small valley, lives in the valley
- Variations: Dale
- Popularity: Dael is a fairly popular girl’s name in the Netherlands, whereas Dale is a common boy’s name in English-speaking countries.
Daffodil
Daffodil is derived from the Dutch “de affodil,” meaning asphodel”. The daffodil flower symbolizes rebirth, revival, hope, joy, resilience, and prosperity, strongly associated with warm sunlight and springtime. Daffodil is a unique floral name and might just be the name you’re looking for.
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: The asphodel
- Popularity: Daffodil is the most popular floral name in the Netherlands but is not very common elsewhere.
Danique
Danique is a chic Dutch girl’s name with a refreshing meaning associated with the beauty of creation and God’s authority. It’s a superb name for your daughter, as a new life named to honor God.
- Origin: Dutch, French
- Meaning: Morning star, God judges
- Pronunciation: Da-neek
- Variations: Daniela
- Popularity: Danique is popular in the Netherlands and fairly common in France but less used elsewhere.
Demi
Demi started out as a nickname for Demetria, which is the feminine form of Demetrios.Demetria is a mythological goddess of corn and harvest. This spiritual meaning outweighs the French meaning of “half, less than, or inferior to.” Demi is a gorgeous name with a modern appeal that resonates with strength.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Earth mother, half
- Namesakes: Demi Moore, an American actress.
- Popularity: Demi is a fairly popular name among Christians across the world.
Doortje
Doortje is the Dutch version of the female name Dorothea and Dorothy. Doortje is an authentic Dutch girl’s name that carries softness and gentleness, which are beautiful feminine traits.
- Origin: Dutch, Old Greek
- Meaning: Gift of God
- Pronunciation: Do-er-key
- Variations: Dorothea, Dorothy
- Popularity: Doortje is a common name in the Netherlands but not very popular.
Doutzen
Doutzen stems from the Old Frisian word “dwa/ dwan” which means “to do” and reflects actions where a “little dove” could symbolize peace or an amicable agreement. It’s a unique traditional Dutch name used for both girls and boys.
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Little dove, the recruiter, the one who makes
- Pronunciation: Doot-zen
- Namesakes: Doutzen Kroes, a Dutch supermodel and actress.
- Popularity: Doutzen is fairly popular in the Netherlands and Dutch-influenced countries like South Africa.
Dunya
The Arabic meaning of Dunya is “world or earth”, a pretty universal meaning; however, the Greek and Russian meanings are a bit more specific, meaning “satisfied” and “good reputation.” Dunya is like a good wine that has matured in harmony to portray pure elegance.
- Origin: Arabic, Greek, Russian
- Meaning: World, earth, to be satisfied, good reputation
- Variations: Dunia, Dunja
- Popularity: Dunya is popular among the Christian and Muslim faiths.
Eleonora
Eleonora has a melodic sound among our Dutch female names. The “a” at the end of Eleonora sounds joyful, but most of it completes this decadent name. If you name your daughter Eleonora you will have many trendy nicknames to choose from, such as El, Elly, or Nora.
- Origin: Arabic, Greek
- Meaning: God is my light, merciful,
- Namesakes: Eleonora Wexler, an Argentine actress.
- Popularity: Eleonora is a very popular name in Denmark, Sweden, and Austria.
Eline
Eline is the Scandinavian version of Helena and also has roots in Old Greek, German, English, and Italian. Eline is a sporty name that may seem like a fun, carefree name but does command attention which could be a good thing for your baby girl.
- Origin: Scandinavian
- Meaning: Nobility, grace, torch, light, beautiful, bright, shining
- Variations: Eliane, Elyne
- Namesakes: Eline Van Der Velden, a Dutch comedian, writer, actress, and producer.
- Popularity: Eline is a trendy name in the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, and Norway.
Elsje
Elsje is derived from the Biblical Greek name “Elisábet.” Elsje has a divine meaning referring to commitment and purpose. Elsje and it’s variants are spread worldwide offering different pronunciations and spellings, but the meaning remains pure.
- Origin: German, Hebrew
- Meaning: Pledged to God
- Variations: Elsa, Isabel, Isabella
- Namesakes: Elsje Agatha Francisca de Wijn, a Dutch actress.
- Popularity: Elsje is a fairly common name in the Netherlands and Dutch-influenced countries.
Esmee
Esmee is the Dutch variant of Esmeralda which has roots in the Greek, Spanish, English, and German languages. With such a gracious meaning, Esmee will be an ideal name choice for your daughter, especially if you have Dutch heritage.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Loved, esteemed
- Variations: Esme
- Popularity: Esmee is highly popular in Belgium and Great Britain but more so in Holland, where Esmee ranked the 53rd most popular female name in 2021.
Evi
Evi is short and cute but carries a big message. A baby girl is a celebration of life, and this is the heavenly message that Evi is cocooned in. It’s derived from the Biblical Eve, who was the mother of life, naive to the forces of darkness.
Famke
Famke is a diminutive of Femme or Fem. The German version of Famke is spelled Femke, but the meaning remains the same. Famke is a lovely traditional Dutch girl’s name, becoming more popular among parents looking for beautiful and rare names.
- Origin: Dutch, German
- Meaning: Little girl, peace
- Pronunciation: Fahm-ke
- Variations: Femke
- Namesakes: Famke Beumer Janssen, a Dutch actress.
- Popularity: Famke is widely used in Holland and slowly gaining popularity in other countries worldwide.
Fay
Strangely enough, British Arthurian legends are popular in some parts of the Netherlands. A sorcerer named Morgan le Fray features in the legends, which may account for Fay’s meaning of “fairy.” Fay sounds like a fairy whisper- soft and gentle.
- Origin: English
- Meaning: Fairy
- Variations: Faye
- Namesakes: Fay Wray, a Canadian-American actress who starred in the 1933 movie King Kong.
- Popularity: Fay was the 83rd most popular name in Holland in 2019 and is also popular in other western countries.
Felicia
Felicia is an old-fashioned name that can be traced back to the Middle Ages. Felicia is derived from Felicitas, the Roman goddess of luck and success. Felicia remains a favorite among Dutch girl names because of its timeless feel and promising meaning.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Lucky, fortunate, happy
- Popularity: Felicia is widely used all over Europe and has a showing in other continents as well.
Fenna
Fenna originated in the northern region of Holland where the Fries language is spoken. Fenna is an easy name to write and pronounce with an equally beautiful meaning. It’s slowly bridging into English-speaking countries, so you should shortlist this vintage yet modern girl’s name while it starts to climb the charts.
- Origin: Dutch, Frisian
- Meaning: Peace
- Variations: Faina, Fenja, Fainia, Fenne
- Namesakes: Fenna Vanhoutte, a Belgian professional racing cyclist.
- Popularity: Fenna is not common outside Europe but is very popular in the Netherlands, ranked the 40th most popular Dutch girls name in 2021.
Fien
Fien is derived from the last part of Josephine. It’s typical for the Dutch to derive short names from long names, such as Lotte from Charlotte. They have perfected the art of turning nicknames into full free-standing names. Fien is a perfectly balanced name and might be the unique name you’re looking for!
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Jehovah increases
- Pronunciation: Fiy-n
- Namesakes: Fien Troch, a Belgian film director, producer, and screenwriter.
- Popularity: Fien was ranked the 24th most popular girl’s name in the Netherlands in 2021.
Fleur
Fleur is a sweet melodic name meaning “flower” in French and “flos” in Latin. Fleur has been made popular through French and English fiction literature and films. Flowers add beauty to nature’s landscapes, just like a baby girl adds love and happiness to a family.
- Origin: Latin, French
- Meaning: Flower
- Pronunciation: Fl-uh-r
- Namesakes: Fleur Alison Bennett, a British television actress.
- Popularity: Fleur was ranked the 35th most popular girl’s name in the Netherlands, 88th in Belgium, and 380th in England, and is also a common name in France.
Frederika
Frederika is the feminine form of Frederik and is predominantly a German given name adopted by countries to the north. The meaning is derived from the High German words “frid,” meaning “peace” and “ric,” meaning “ruler or power.” This is a reassuring meaning that requires compassion and understanding, something your baby girl may grow into.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Peaceful ruler, princess of peace
- Pronunciation: Friy-deh-riy-kaa
- Variations: Frederica
- Popularity: Frederika is widely used in Scandinavian and Germanic countries but is not popular elsewhere.
Geertruida
Geertruida has a passionate meaning that shows love for all living creatures and flowers, which keep the birds and bees healthy. Geertruida is easy to pronounce, but most use nicknames such as Geertje, Troy, and Trudy instead of the full name. There is a beauty to Geertruida, and it might make a comeback as a traditional heritage name.
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Spear maiden, lover of animals, birds, and flowers
- Pronunciation: Gihr-truw-dah
- Popularity: Geertruida was a popular name until the 1950s but started fading away and is not that common today.
Godelieve
Godelieve has such a deeply spiritual meaning. It’s refreshing to know that your name is a daily reminder that God loves you. Godelieve will always be a source of hope during dark times.
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: One who is loved by God
- Pronunciation: G-ow-dah-liy-v
- Variations: Godeliva, Godiva
- Popularity: Godelieve is widely used in Belgium, Holland, and the DRC but is not a common name.
Grietje
Grietje is the Dutch form of Greta, which is the nickname of Margaret. Grietje is another example of a short, pretty name created from the longer, equally pretty Dutch name Margriet. The famous German fairy-tale “Hansel and Gretel” is known as “Hans en Grietje” in Dutch.
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Pearl
- Pronunciation: G-ree-key
- Namesakes: Grietje “Gretha”, a retired Dutch speed skater.
Gusta
Gusta is the feminine form of Augustus. As a Dutch female name, Gusta is short and easy to pronounce and has a warrior feel that makes it an attractive choice.
- Origin: Latin, Old Norse
- Meaning: Majestic dignity
- Pronunciation: Gh-oos-tah
- Variations: Gustava, Gusti, Gustie, Gussy
- Popularity: Gusta is widely used in Dutch, English, and Germanic countries in Europe but is not very popular.
Gwen
Gwen is an elegant stand-alone Dutch female name believed to be a nickname for Guinevere and Gwendolyn. The meaning relates to the color white in a spiritual context meaning pure or holy. Gwen is a sassy, upbeat modern name with deep traditional roots.
- Origin: Dutch, Welsh
- Meaning: White, holy, white circle
- Pronunciation: Gw-ehn
- Namesakes: Gwen Stefani, an American pop-rock singer.
- Popularity: Gwen was the 818th most popular name in the U.S. in 2020 and is widely popular among Christians worldwide.
Hanna
Hanna is derived from the Hebrew Biblical name Hannah. Hanna is used by Arabic, European, and Asian cultures, which shows how likable this awesome name has been over time.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Gift of God’s favor
- Variations: Anne, Ann, Ana
- Namesakes: Hanna Obbeek, a Dutch actress.
- Popularity: Hanna is very popular worldwide and has been in the top 35 most popular names in the U.S. since 2000.
Hannie
Hannie is the Dutch version of the Hebrew name Yochana and the widely popular name Johanna which means “compassionate.” Hannie is a sweet and endearing Dutch girl’s name that may sound like the word “honey” when spoken.
- Origin: Dutch, Hebrew
- Meaning: God is gracious
- Variations: Hanny, Hanni
- Namesakes: Hannie Termeulen, a Dutch Olympic freestyle swimmer.
- Popularity: Hannie is widely used in Holland and other western countries but hasn’t featured among the top 1,000 popular girl names in the U.S.
Haven
Haven was created from the Old English word “haefen,” used to describe a port or harbor, where “haef” means “ocean.” The meaning of Haven is linked to being safe and could make a wise choice for your shortlist.
- Origin: Dutch, Old English
- Meaning: Port, sanctuary
- Variations: Havyn
- Namesakes: Haven Gilespie, the American composer who wrote, “Santa Clause is coming to town.”
Hendrika
Hendrika is the feminine form of the male name Hendrik. We know that women rule the home and heart, which makes this strong Dutch female name “the cherry on the cake” as far as factual statements go.
- Origin: Dutch, Old German
- Meaning: Home ruler
- Variations: Henrietta, Henrikje, Hindrika, Hinrika
- Namesakes: Hendrika Johanna van Leeuwen, a Dutch physicist.
- Popularity: Hendrika is widely used in Germanic and Scandinavian countries.
Ilse
Ilse is the Dutch variation of Ilsa, which is a diminutive of Elizabeth. Like many Dutch girl names, Ilse is short and spiritually meaningful, giving this soft name the amour of devotion.
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Pledged to God
- Variations: Ilsa
- Namesakes: Ilse DeLange, a Dutch singer.
- Popularity: Ilse is a very popular name in the Netherlands, Sweden, and Germanic countries.
Indy
Indy is a girl’s name in the Netherlands but unisex elsewhere. Indy is often used as a short name for Indigo. Everything being equal, Indy is a stand-up name for a baby girl.
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Independent
- Popularity: Indy is very popular in Britain and the Netherlands and popular in most western countries.
Isa
Isa also means “Jesus” in Arabic and is typically a male name in Arabic countries. The German, Dutch meaning, “strong-willed” is a trait that Jesus exercised so well when tempted by the devil. Isa is mainly used as a girl’s name in western countries and could be short for Isabel or Isabella.
- Origin: German, Persian
- Meaning: Strong-willed
- Popularity: Isa is very popular in Germany and the Netherlands.
Jade
Jade refers to the gemstone of the same name. Although historically a unisex name, Jade is currently more popular as a girl’s name. The word “precious” will undoubtedly come to mind when you see your daughter for the first time!
- Origin: Spanish
- Meaning: Precious stone
- Variations: Jada, Jayda, Jady
- Namesakes: Jade MacRae, an Australian singer.
- Popularity: Jade is a widely popular name around the world.
Janna
Janna is common in English, German, Frisian, Swedish, Polish, and Russian as a form of Johanna. Janna is also the feminine form of the male name Jan. The Hebrew meaning of “wished for child,” can be seen as a sign that God’s grace was upon you.
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: God is gracious, wished for child
- Popularity: Janna is widely used around the globe and relatively popular in Dutch and Germanic-influenced countries like South Africa and Namibia.
Jaylinn
Jaylinn is the feminine form of the boy’s name Jason, which is a modern made-up name that made it onto the American top names list in 1961 for the first time. Jaylinn is a very pretty name that can be shortened, but there may be no need for nicknames with such a gorgeous name.
- Origin: American
- Meaning: May God protect, supplanter, beautiful jaybird
- Variations: Jalen, Jaylynn
- Popularity: Jaylinn was ranked 85th most popular name in the Netherlands in 2015 and remains widely popular in western countries.
Jetje
Usually, Dutch settlers in America would take on English names similar to their own, and Jetje would often be substituted with Jessie or Jessica. Jetje is a traditional Dutch female name with the suffix “je” at the end, giving Jetje a more feminine appeal.
- Origin: Dutch, Teutonic
- Meaning: Estate ruler
- Pronunciation: Jh-eh-t-h
- Popularity: Jetje is fairly common in Holland and Germanic countries.
Julitta
Julitta is the Dutch variation of Julia, which in turn is the feminine version of Julius. The names initially meant “of the family of Julii” and “dedicated to Jupiter/Jove,” derived from the Latin “lovilius.” Julitta is a charming name for a baby girl who will always be a little princess to her father and mother.
- Origin: Dutch, Latin
- Meaning: Youthful, sky father
- Popularity: Julitta is somewhat popular in western countries.
Juna
Juda was the name of the Roman goddess of marriage and birth and had several meanings in different cultures which relate to life, the giver of life, and nourishment for life. Juna is also closely linked to Luna, referring to the moon, which regulates the ocean tides and is thus life-sustaining.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Moon, young, source of life, belonging to Juno, gentle, kind
- Variations: Luna, Youna, Yuna
- Popularity: Juna is popular in Switzerland, Holland, Germanic countries, and Japan and relatively common across other western countries.
Juul
Juul is a stand-alone favorite among Dutch names for girls, usually shortened from Julia. The English nickname for Julia is Jules which could be considered a safer option to bridge cultural barriers as Juul in the U.S. is a vaping product.
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Youthful
- Popularity: Juul is popular in the Netherlands and Scandinavian countries.
Kiki
Kiki is a vibrant name full of energy and life. With the meaning “double happiness,” your daughter will get a double dose of love and everything that makes each day brighter than ever. Kiki is also used as a nickname for names beginning with the letter “K.”
- Origin: French
- Meaning: Double happiness
- Namesakes: Kiki Bertens, a former Dutch professional tennis player.
- Popularity: Kiki is very popular in the Netherlands and England.
Klaartje
Derived from the Latin word “clarus,” meaning “bright, clear, famous,” and “illustrious one,” Klaartje comes with a great deal of joy and hope. Klaartje is also used as a pet name for the multicultural name Klara and the English name Clare.
- Origin: Latin, Dutch, Frisian
- Meaning: Bright, clear, famous, illustrious one
- Variations: Clara, Klara, Clarisse
- Popularity: Klaartje is a fairly popular name in South Africa, Namibia, and the Netherlands but rarely used elsewhere.
Lana
Lana was derived from the Slavic names Svetlana, Milana, and Alana. Lana has a distinctly international flair, making choosing this sleek name so much easier.
- Origin: Slavic
- Meaning: Little rock, gracious, light
- Variations: Lahna, Lanah
- Namesakes: Lana Condor, an American actress.
- Popularity: Lana ranked 390th in the U.S in 2020 and the 88th most popular girl’s name in the Netherlands also in 2020. Lana is widely popular in Slavic countries and most European countries.
Lara
In Roman mythology, Lara was a mythological spirit in Ovid’s Fasti, famous for her beauty and inability to keep secrets. This could be good because you’d like your daughter to be as open and honest as the mythological Lara was.
- Origin: Greek, Latin
- Meaning: Laurel wreath, seagull, citadel, bright, bright, famous, graceful, cheerful
- Variations: Larae, Laura Laurentia, Clara
- Namesakes: Lara Jones, a British artist, children’s author, and illustrator.
- Popularity: Lara was ranked the 706th most popular girl’s name in the U.S. in 2020. It’s widely popular in Europe and Russia, including its territory spanning Asia.
Lieke
Lieke is the Dutch version of Angelique and means “angel.” This is a unique name with an uplifting meaning that could easily turn heads wherever it’s heard.
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Angelic, angel, messenger
- Variations: Lyke
- Namesakes: Lieke Martens, a Dutch female association football player.
- Popularity: Lieke is a very popular girl’s name in the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium.
Lina
Lina is a typical nickname for names like Carolina. In Hebrew, the meaning is “garden or field of fruit,” in French, Lina means “little and strong,” and in Russian, Lina means “illumination.” Each meaning is so divine and could give your baby girl a world of confidence throughout her life.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Tender, light of spirit
- Namesakes: Lina Esco, an American actress, producer, and director.
- Popularity: Lina is extremely popular across Europe and the United States.
Liv
Liv stems from Norse mythology, where two humans survived Ragnarok and went on to repopulate the world. Liv may also be the short form of Olivia. The Old Norse word for shelter is “hlif,” which gave rise to the name. In Norwegian, Swedish, and Danish, “liv” means “life.”
- Origin: Old Norse
- Meaning: Life, shelter, protection
- Namesakes: Liv Dawson, a British pop singer.
- Popularity: Liv is very popular in Nordic and Germanic countries, including Israel.
Lotte
Lotte is the Dutch short form of Charlotte and is a very common name in Scandinavian countries. The phrase “as free as the day I was born” could be your daughter’s life slogan.
- Origin: Dutch, German; Scandinavian
- Meaning: Free
- Namesakes: Lotte Hollands, a Dutch mathematical physicist.
- Popularity: Lotte is popular in Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium.
Luna
Luna was the moon goddess in Roman mythology, and every day at dusk, she would shoot an arrow full of stars across the night sky. Luna is a mystical name written across the night sky as a reminder to reach for your dreams.
- Origin: Latin, Roman, Spanish
- Meaning: Moon
- Variations: Louna, Luneth, Lunette
- Namesakes: Luna Schweiger, a German actress.
- Popularity: Luna is a very popular name around the world.
Madelief
Madelief is a beautiful Dutch girl’s name with the suffix “lief,” meaning “love” in Afrikaans. This is an unusual name in other parts of the world, but it could perfectly suit your newest little addition to the family!
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Daisy
- Namesakes: Madelief Blanken, a Dutch actress.
- Popularity: Madelief is popular in the Netherlands and fairly popular in South Africa.
Maja
Maja has several meanings from different origins. It’s noted that Maja stems from Maria, which means “sea of bitterness, rebelliousness, exalted one, beloved, and wished for child.” Whichever origin and related meaning you choose, Maja is a bubbly name bursting with life, much like bees in the springtime.
- Origin: German, Scandinavian, Arabic
- Meaning: Goddess of springtime, warmth, increase, mother, larger or greater
- Variations: Maya
- Popularity: Maja is a very popular name in Sweden, Slovenia, and other European countries.
Malou
Malou is a Dutch combination name created from Mary and Lou, which brings these old-fashioned names back into the limelight. You can use the meaning of Malou to create some suitable life lessons for your daughter.
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Bitter, renowned warrior
- Namesakes: Malou Ejdesgaard, a retired Danish tennis player.
- Popularity: Malou was ranked the 132nd most popular girl’s name in Switzerland in 2020 and is fairly popular in other countries in Europe.
Marian
Marian is more popular as a girl’s name than a boy’s name. The meaning may be confusing but holds great truth- showing that with grace and mercy comes great responsibility, and it’s typical to rebel against unwanted influence. Your daughter will thank you for this profound and humbling name.
- Origin: Dutch, Hebrew, French, English
- Meaning: Grace, mercy, rebelliousness
- Variations: Marien, Mariam, Marion
- Popularity: Marian was in the top 100 names list in the U.S. from 1912 to1934 but has since slipped away. Marion remains a widely used name across the globe.
Marieke
Marieke is the Dutch diminutive of Mary and has become popular in Germany due to the similarity in languages and pronunciation of words. Marieke is a strong traditional name that has stood the test of time and still sounds like a melodic tune today.
- Origin: Dutch, North Frisian
- Meaning: Drop of the sea, bitter, beloved
- Pronunciation: Mah-ree-kuh
- Variations: Mariel
- Namesakes: Marieke Stam, a retired Dutch speed skater.
- Popularity: Marieke is fairly popular in Dutch and Germanic countries but rare elsewhere.
Marit
Marit is associated with royalty for a reason. The pronunciation of Marit has an aura of higher status and commands attention, but it also means “lady,” which puts the name in the regal category.
- Origin: Aramaic, Greek
- Meaning: Pearl, lady
- Namesakes: Marit Velle Kile, a Norwegian actress.
- Popularity: Marit is a popular name in Norway, Dutch, and Germanic countries but relatively unknown elsewhere.
Maud
Maud is a medieval form of the German name Matilda and derived from the old French name Mahaut, a variant of Matilda. Maud is a short name that’s easy to pronounce and has a meaning that will inspire any young lady to stand her ground and fight her own battles.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Powerful warrior, mighty in battle
- Pronunciation: Mawd
- Popularity: Maud is a trendy name in the Netherlands but less popular in France and Germanic countries.
Mieke
Mieke is the Dutch version of Marie, which in itself is a cute name. Mieke is a pretty name with a softer touch, wrapped up in the truthful reality of life. Nothing beats honesty, and your daughter will appreciate your sentiment.
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Sea of bitterness, drop of the sea, star of the sea, rebelliousness, exalted one, wished for child
- Popularity: Mieke is fairly common in the Netherlands but not overly popular.
Myrthe
Myrthe is named after the evergreen myrtle plant, which is “mirte” in Dutch. This is a beautiful nature-inspired name, as the myrtle plant is consistent through all seasons.
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Myrtle plant
- Popularity: Myrthe is popular in Dutch and Germanic countries.
Nienke
Nienke is the Dutch form of the Frisian name Nynke, short for Katherine. Nienke is a sweet N name for girls and might be the gorgeous, unusual Dutch name you’re searching for.
- Origin: Old Greek
- Meaning: Pure
- Pronunciation: neen-keh
- Popularity: Nienke is popular in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Norway
Noa
Noa is a female name and has a different meaning from the male name Noah which means “rest, repose.” Noa is the modern spelling of the female name and means “motion.” Besides the confusion that may arise, Noa has steadily become more and more popular over the years.
- Origin: Hebrew, Dutch
- Meaning: Motion
- Popularity: Noa is widely popular around the world.
Noor
Noor is a unisex name derived from the Arabic name Nur which means “light.” Noor is also the short form of the feminine name Eleonora meaning “God is my light, torch, beautiful, light, bright, and shining.”
- Origin: Dutch, Arabic
- Meaning: God is my light, beautiful, shining
- Popularity: Noor is a very common Dutch girl’s name and is popular among Christians and Muslims alike.
Nora
Many celebrities in show business have helped boost Nora’s popularity over the years, but the meaning has contributed too. If you’re looking for an easily recognizable international name for your daughter, Nora could be the one!
- Origin: Dutch, German, English
- Meaning: Light
- Popularity: Nora is very popular in the U.S. and was ranked the 28th most popular name in 2017. Nora is also popular in most other western countries.
Pien
Pien is the Dutch short form of Josephine. The meaning relates to the abundance of God’s gifts and will be a gracious name for your daughter.
- Origin: Dutch, Hebrew
- Meaning: He (God) will add
- Popularity: Pien was ranked the 134th most popular name in the Netherlands in 2015 and remains pretty popular there. Pien is also popular in India.
Rika
Rika is the Nordic short form of Ricarda, Erika, Friederika, and Henrika. As a short stand-alone Nordic name, Rika has a modern touch that will ensure the longevity of this sweet name.
- Origin: Nordic, Persian
- Meaning: Brave ruler, peaceful ruler, home ruler
- Popularity: Rika is widely used in western countries and reasonably popular in Arabic countries
Rineke
Here’s a song of a name that literally slipped through the cracks. Rineke is a diminutive of Rina- a Hebrew name, and diminutive of names that include “rina.” The meaning of Rina makes the name sound just right!
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Song, joy
- Pronunciation: ree-nuh-kuh
- Namesakes: Rineke Dijkstra, a Dutch photographer.
- Popularity: Rineke is a common name in the Netherlands but unknown elsewhere.
Romy
Romy is another diminutive name that became a stand-alone name. Romy is a soft, gentle but fun name that will work with most personalities. Romy is the diminutive of Rosemary, Roma, Romana, Romilly, and others.
- Origin: German
- Meaning: Rose
- Popularity: Romy has been in the top 100 names in several European countries and is widely popular in France and many Spanish countries.
Sanne
Sanne is the Danish and Dutch short version of Susanna, which is of Hebrew origin. Susanna is also derived from Egyptian “sšn” meaning “lotus.” A floral name is always a winner, and Sanne takes the prize.
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Lily
- Pronunciation: sahn-neh
- Popularity: Sanne is very popular in Holland, ranked 95th in 2020, but rare in the U.S.
Saskia
Saskia has been used in Europe since the Middle Ages. Being the name of Rembrandt’s wife, it became even more popular among the Afrikaners in South Africa and Namibia. Other meanings of Saskia are Slavic, “protector of mankind,” and Danish, “valley of light,” which add value to an already beautiful name.
- Origin: Dutch, German,
- Meaning: A Saxon woman, protector of mankind, valley of light
- Popularity: Saskia is a popular name in most countries in Europe, South Africa, and Namibia.
Sidonia
Sidonia is the Dutch variant of the English name Sydney and French Sidonie. Sidonia may catch on around the world much like Sydney did, as the pronunciation already has an English feel.
- Origin: Dutch, Old Roman
- Meaning: Woman of Sidon
- Popularity: Sidonia is widely used in Europe but not very common.
Skylar
The Traditional name Skylar was spelled Schuyler in Dutch before being Americanised into current day Skylar. Also, the original Schuyler was a male name, but the modern name Skylar is now primarily a Dutch girl’s name.
- Origin: Dutch, American
- Meaning: Scholar
- Popularity: Skylar is popular in the U.S. and other western English-speaking countries.
Sofie
Sofie stems from the Greek name Sophia, a very trendy name worldwide. Sofie is a soft feminine name that little girls grow into and become respected ladies.
- Origin: Dutch, German, Scandinavian, Czech Greek
- Meaning: Wise, Wisdom
- Popularity: Sofie is a highly popular name around the globe.
Tess
Tess is a stand-alone short form of Theresa derived from the Greek Therizein. Tess and Theresa have been prominent names in world history, and your daughter could be the next torchbearer.
- Origin: Dutch, Greek
- Meaning: Harvester, hunter, guardian
- Popularity: Tess was ranked the 7th most popular name in the Netherlands in 2021 and is very popular across Europe and other western countries.
Tulip
Tulip is associated with the declaration of love and means “perfect and deep love” in flower language. Amsterdam is the city of tulips. The petals of a tulip flower fold and overlap like the material wrap of a turban, making Tulip a very practical floral name.
- Origin: Persia
- Meaning: Turban
- Popularity: Tulip is not a common name but is becoming more widely used worldwide.
Valencia
Valencia is rooted in Spanish history, and although a unisex name, more girls than boys are given this melodic name. The Dutch have an affinity for names with strong, relatable meanings that pronounce goodness, exactly like Valencia.
- Origin: Latin
- Meaning: Strong, brave, healthy
- Popularity: Valencia is fairly popular in England and widely used across western countries.
Veerle
Veerle was derived from the ancient Germanic name Pharaildis made up of two Germanic words, “farina” which means “to travel,” and “hiltja” which means “battle.” Veerle is a charming Dutch girl’s name for our modern times.
- Origin: Dutch, German
- Meaning: Traveling warrior
- Pronunciation: veer-luh
- Popularity: Veerle was ranked the 64th most popular name in the Netherlands in 2021.
Vera
Vera is an old-fashioned name made modern over the last century. Both the sound of Vera and the meaning associated with hoping and devotion make Vera a neatly packaged girls name for all seasons.
- Origin: Russia
- Meaning: Faith
- Popularity: Vera is a widely popular Dutch girl’s name worldwide.
Verena
Verena is a short form of Veronica of Greek and Celtic origin. The meaning of Verena implies the combination of deeds and wisdom will bring victory. Verena is easy to pronounce and is a gorgeous name for a sweet baby girl.
- Origin: Dutch
- Meaning: Bringing victory
- Popularity: Verena is popular in Scandinavia, Holland, and Germanic countries.
Wilma
Wilma is the diminutive of Wilhelmina, which is the Dutch and German feminine form of the male name Wilhelm. Wilma is a traditional Dutch name with a beautiful sound and a meaning rooted in deep history.
- Origin: Dutch, German, English
- Meaning: Resolute protection
- Pronunciation: vil-mah
- Popularity: Wilma is very popular in Scandinavia, the Netherlands, Great Britain, Germanic countries, and Southern Africa.
Yara
Yara is the name of a beautiful green-skinned Brazilian goddess associated with different flowers in different languages and cultures. Yara has many beautiful meanings and is a sweet-sounding feminine name.
Yuna
Yuna was the Celtic patron saint of the wooden shoemakers, part of Dutch heritage. Yuna is also a flower in Japan that resembles a pinwheel, much like the windmills in Holland. This delicate option among our gorgeous Dutch girl names highlights the beautiful similarities and differences between diverse cultures.
- Origin: Celtic, Japanese
- Meaning: Kindness, moon, sunshine, heaven
- Popularity: Yuna is popular in Switzerland, Germany, Holland, Belgium, and the United States but is also used across the globe.
Zoe
Zoe stems from the Biblical name Eve with the same meaning. The Jewish people translated Eve to Zoe (its Greek equivalent), and in Christian circles, Zoe is associated with eternal life. Zoe is the perfect name for a baby girl for all the right reasons.
- Origin: Greek
- Meaning: Life
- Pronunciation: zow-ee
- Popularity: Zoe is widely popular around the world.
Dutch Name FAQs
What are Common Dutch Names?
Here are ten baby girl names in no particular order that were highly popular in the Netherlands in 2021.
Dutch girl names are typically shortened versions of longer names, but the original meanings are still carried through into the Dutch version of the name.
What is the Most Common Girl Name in the Netherlands?
Julia and Tess are both very common names in the Netherlands. However, the Dutch versions of Julia, like Julitta and Juul, are not as popular as Julia.
What are Common Dutch Last Names?
Common Dutch surnames include:
- Van de Ber
- Van Dijk
- Bakker
- De Jong
- Jansen
- Visser
Do the Dutch Have Middle Names?
No, Dutch people do not view other names as middle names. They do have either one or two first names. Every given name is equally important, and all the names, regardless of how many there are, are all considered first names followed by their surname.
Who is the Most Famous Dutch Person?
Vincent van Gogh must be the most famous Dutch artist globally, and from a historical perspective, Anne Frank is also internationally known.
