Baetens

Baetens is a surname of Dutch and Flemish origin. It is believed to be a patronymic, derived from the given name "Baet", which itself is a shortened form of Lambert. Lambert is a Germanic name composed of the elements "laib" (heritage, inheritance) and "berht" (bright, famous). Therefore, Baetens can be interpreted to mean "son of Baet" or "descendant of Baet". The surname is most commonly found in Belgium and the Netherlands, with concentrations in the Flanders region of Belgium.

Notable individuals with the surname Baetens include Koen Baetens, a Belgian former professional footballer. The name has been present in historical records for centuries, appearing in various church registers and genealogical documents. Like many surnames, its prevalence and geographical distribution have evolved over time due to migration and demographic changes. The exact origins and early history of the Baetens surname are subject to ongoing genealogical research.