Kees
Meaning of Kees
The name Kees is a traditional Dutch male given name, pronounced as "kays" (/keˌs/). It is a diminutive form of Cornelis, which has Latin origins and means "horn." Kees is a popular choice in the Netherlands, reflecting its deep-rooted cultural heritage. While it remains relatively uncommon in the United States, with sporadic occurrences over the years—such as 5 newborns named Kees in 2022—it carries a unique charm and strong historical significance. The name evokes associations with classic Dutch values and can be an excellent choice for parents looking for a distinctive yet meaningful name for their baby boy.
Pronunciation
Dutch
- Pronunced as kays (/keˌs/)
U.S. Popularity Chart
Notable People Named Kees
| Kees Schouhamer Immink - Kornelis Antonie "Kees" Schouhamer Immink is a pioneering Dutch engineer and inventor known for his influential work in digital audio, video, and data recording, which laid the foundation for technologies like CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs. |
| Kees de Jager - Cornelis "Kees" de Jager was a Dutch astronomer known for his work in predicting solar variation and his involvement in the European skeptical movement. |
| Kees van Dongen - Cornelis Theodorus Maria "Kees" van Dongen was a Dutch-French painter known for his radical use of form and color, with a focus on nightlife themes and sensuous portraits of women. |
| Kees Lensing - Gideon "Kees" Lensing is a former Namibian rugby union player and coach known for his career as a prop and his coaching role with the Seattle Seawolves in Major League Rugby. |
| Kees Boeke - Cornelis "Kees" Boeke was a Dutch reformist educator, Quaker missionary, and pacifist, best known for his influential essay/book Cosmic View (1957) that inspired several films. |
| Kees van Kooten - Cornelis Reinier "Kees" van Kooten is a Dutch comedian, television actor, and writer who co-founded the duo Van Kooten & De Bie. |
| Kees Verkerk - Cornelis Arie "Kees" Verkerk is a retired Dutch speed skater. |
| Kees Bruynzeel - Cornelis Bruynzeel Jr. was a Dutch businessman, timber merchant, and yachtsman. |
| Kees Smit is a Dutch footballer currently playing as a midfielder for Jong AZ in the Eerste Divisie. |
| Kees de Kort was a renowned Dutch artist celebrated for his captivating illustrations of Bible stories in children's books. |
| Kees van Wonderen - Cornelis "Kees" Hendricus van Wonderen is a Dutch professional football manager and former player, currently serving as the head coach of Eredivisie club Heerenveen. |
| Kees Verkade - Korstiaan "Kees" Verkade was a Dutch artist and sculptor known for his bronze sculptures capturing the human form in various emotional and dynamic poses, as well as creating accompanying gouaches and silkscreens. |
| Kees Junior Meeuws is a former All Blacks rugby player who also worked as an assistant coach and pursued careers in real estate and painting. |
| Kees Kooper was a renowned Dutch violinist known for his exceptional performances and debut in the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam. |
| Kees Maks, a renowned Dutch painter born in Amsterdam, is known for his significant contributions to the art world. |
