Geert

Geert is a masculine given name of Dutch origin. It is typically a short form of Gerard, and in some cases a stand-alone name in its own right. The name Gerard itself comes from Germanic roots, usually interpreted as combining elements meaning spear and brave or guard.

Geert is most common in the Netherlands and the Flemish-speaking part of Belgium. It belongs to a family of Dutch names derived from Gerard, with Gert as a closely related short form. The form Geert is characteristic of Dutch phonology and spelling, and similar names appear in other Germanic languages in related variants.

Notable people named Geert include Geert Wilders, a Dutch politician known for leading the Party for Freedom; Geert Mak, a Dutch journalist and author; Geert Groote, a 14th-century Dutch religious reformer and founder of the Devotio Moderna movement; and Geert Hoste, a Belgian comedian and writer. The name is also encountered in various fields such as academia, sports, and the arts, reflecting its long-standing presence in Dutch-speaking regions.

Geert remains a traditional name with contemporary usage, though its popularity has fluctuated over time, as with many classic given names. It is generally used in Dutch-speaking communities and is typically pronounced with a long "ee" sound in Dutch. While primarily a given name, it can occasionally appear as a surname in rare instances.