Dutchman

American  

[duhch-muhn] / ˈdʌtʃ mən /

noun

plural

Dutchmen

1. a native or inhabitant of the Netherlands.

2. (lowercase) a piece or wedge inserted to hide the fault in a badly made joint, to stop an opening, etc.

3. Theater. a narrow strip of canvas to conceal the join between two flats.

4. Slang: Sometimes Offensive. a term used to refer to a German.

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Dutchman British  

/ ˈdʌtʃmən /

noun

1. a native, citizen, or inhabitant of the Netherlands

2. a piece of wood, metal, etc, used to repair or patch faulty workmanship

3. derogatory an Afrikaner

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Sensitive Note

As used to refer to a German, the term Dutchman was originally standard English. But around the time of World War I, it became a slang term of contempt for the enemy. Its use nowadays is still sometimes perceived as insulting.

Etymology

Origin of Dutchman

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; see origin at Dutch, man

Example Sentences

The Dutchman feels his team have conceded penalties in similar circumstances, with little contact but no VAR intervention.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

Lambiase is known for his close relationship to four-time world champion Verstappen, with whom he has worked since the Dutchman joined Red Bull for the 2016 Spanish Grand Prix.

From BBC • Apr. 9, 2026

"All too familiar," the Bayern X account shared in reference to the Dutchman.

From BBC • Mar. 18, 2026

The Dutchman admitted that it would be a special moment for him too as he is yet to manage at that stage of the competition.

From BBC • Mar. 17, 2026

That world was discovered by the Dutchman Antonie van Leeuwenhoek when, in 1676, he was the first to see living creatures invisible to the naked eye.

From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton