Gretje

little Margaret
Dutch origin · Girl name
3% boys97% girls
#1882US 2023
10Births / yr
Stable
Top 1.4%Percentile

What does Gretje mean and where does it come from?

Gretje is a diminutive form of the name Margaretha, which derives from the Greek word 'margaritēs' meaning 'pearl'.

Cultural significance
Gretje is commonly used in Dutch-speaking regions, often as a term of endearment or affection for girls named Margaretha.
Peak popularity
Reached #1882 in 2015 — currently #1882 in the US.
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Related Reading
Dutch-origin baby names with timeless appeal
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How else can you spell Gretje?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

What middle names flow best with Gretje?

Gretje works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Gretje Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Gretje Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Gretje Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Gretje Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Gretje Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Gretje Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
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Middle Names
The best middle names for Gretje
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How popular is Gretje right now?

Holding steady — currently #1882 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 20192023#1882 · Top 1.4%
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
YearUS RankBirthsvs Prior Year
2023#188210stable
2022#188210stable
2021#188210stable
2020#188210stable
2019#188210
💎Gretje is exceptionally rare — it does not appear in US Social Security records, meaning fewer than 5 babies per year have received this name.

What are good nicknames for Gretje?

Common
GreGrieGryEtje

Famous people named Gretje

Gv
Gretje van der Veen
A Dutch artist known for her contemporary paintings.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2025
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Common questions about the name Gretje

What does the name Gretje mean?
Gretje means "little Margaret" — a name rooted in Dutch tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Gretje?
Gretje is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Gretje?
Gretje originates from Dutch tradition. Dutch names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Gretje a common or rare name?
Gretje is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Gretje more of a girl or boy name?
Gretje is primarily used as a girl name, giving it a clear, timeless character while remaining accessible to modern families.