Dutch Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/dʌtʃ/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun, Adjective

Definition

Relating to the Netherlands, its people, or their language; a person from the Netherlands or of Dutch descent.

Examples

• The Dutch capital is Amsterdam.
• Sarah has Dutch ancestry.

Synonyms

• Netherlandic
• Hollandic

Antonyms

• Foreign
• Alien

Additional Information

The Dutch language is a West Germanic language spoken by around 23 million people, primarily in the Netherlands and Belgium. Dutch culture is known for its rich history, vibrant art, and iconic windmills. The Netherlands is famous for its tolerant and liberal society, with Amsterdam being a popular tourist destination.

Dutch cuisine is characterized by its hearty and comforting dishes, such as stamppot and herring. The country is also famous for its cheese, chocolate, and beer. The Dutch people are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, as well as their love for cycling and outdoor activities.

Etymology

The word “Dutch” comes from the Old English word “þeodisc”, meaning “of the people” or “popular”. Over time, the term evolved to refer specifically to the people of the Netherlands and their language.

Usage Notes

The term “Dutch” can be used as both a noun and an adjective. When referring to the language, it’s common to use the phrase “Dutch language”. In informal contexts, “Dutch” can be used to refer to the Netherlands or its people.

Cultural References

The Dutch have made significant contributions to art, literature, and science. Famous Dutch artists include Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Vermeer. The country is also home to the Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank House.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “Dutch courage” (bravery induced by drinking)
• “Dutch treat” (when each person pays for their own meal)

Related Words or Phrases

• Netherlands
• Holland
• Flemish

Collocations

• Dutch language
• Dutch culture
• Dutch cuisine

Frequency of Use

The word “Dutch” is commonly used in everyday language, particularly in contexts related to travel, culture, and history. It’s estimated that the word appears in around 1 in 10,000 written sentences.

Common Misspellings

• DUtch
• DUTCH
• Dutchh