Heeren

Heeren is a Dutch term historically used to refer to lords or gentlemen. In modern usage, the standard plural is heren, while the spelling heeren survives mainly in historical texts and as a proper name element. The word can appear in formal addresses such as Geachte heren (Dear sirs) and in names of organizations or bodies.

Etymology and scope. Heeren derives from the Old Dutch noun heer, meaning a master or lord. It is cognate with other Germanic terms such as German Herr and English lord. The form heeren is an older or stylistic spelling that appears in older documents and traditional phrases.

Historical usage. In the Dutch Republic, several collective bodies were known by the plural term Heren XVII, literally the Seventeen Lords, who governed the Dutch East India Company (VOC) from its early decades. The term also appeared in ceremonial contexts and in the official addressing of councils and magistrates. Beyond formal governance, heeren as a term of address appears in historical letters, chronicles, and formal invitations.

Modern usage and onomastics. Today, most Dutch speakers use heren as the plural of heer. Heeren is largely confined to historical texts, literary usage, or as part of surnames and place names in some cases. As a surname, Heeren can be found in the Netherlands and other parts of the Low Countries, reflecting historical naming practices rather than a current title or role.

See also. Heer, the singular noun; Heren XVII, the historical governing body of the VOC.