Groote

Groote is a Dutch term that historically appears as Groote in older spellings of Groot, meaning large or great. In use it is encountered mainly in place names and as a surname within Dutch-speaking regions, often reflecting historical orthography.

Groote Eylandt is the largest island in the Gulf of Carpentaria, off the northern coast of the Northern Territory, Australia. It was named by Dutch navigator Willem Janszoon in 1623 as Groot Eylandt, meaning Great Island; the modern spelling Groote Eylandt reflects the period’s orthography. The island is the homeland of the Anindilyakwa people, who speak the Anindilyakwa language, and hosts Indigenous communities such as Angurugu and Umbakumba. A manganese mining operation has been a major economic activity on the island, alongside traditional practices and tourism.

Groote is also a surname of Dutch origin and may be found in Dutch-speaking communities.

Today, Groot is the standard modern spelling, with Groote surviving primarily in historical or toponymic contexts.