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

Crucially, Arne Slot's side now look set to secure Champions League football for next season and the Dutchman had two of his most senior players to thank for one of Liverpool's biggest victories this season.

From BBC • Apr. 19, 2026

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

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

The Dutchman won the PFA Player of the Year award in 1998.

From BBC • Mar. 25, 2026

The 27-year-old Dutchman missed three match darts in the 10th leg which allowed Littler to level the score with a 136 checkout.

From BBC • Mar. 22, 2026

A friend of Theo’s, fellow Dutchman Andries Bonger, takes him to the train station for the first part of his journey.

From "Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers" by Deborah Heiligman