Herdenkt

Herdenkt is a Dutch verb meaning to commemorate or to recall with reverence the memory of people or events. It is commonly used in contexts of remembrance for victims of wars, disasters, or historical events, and appears in official statements, media reports, and everyday language when referring to memorial ceremonies or anniversaries.

Etymology and grammar: The verb is formed with the prefix her- attached to denken (to think). The sense is to think back again or to recall. The present tense forms include ik herdenk, jij herdenkt, hij/zij/het herdenkt, wij/herdenken, jullie/herdenken, zij/herdenken. The third-person singular form is herdenkt. The past tense is herdacht and the present perfect is heeft herdacht.

Usage and context: In the Netherlands and Belgium, the term is used for a wide range of remembrance activities, from national observances to local commemorations. The noun herdenking (remembrance or commemoration) is often used to label ceremonies. Common phrases include “De natie herdenkt de slachtoffers” and “Een herdenking van het verleden.” A prominent example is the Dutch Dodenherdenking (Remembrance of the Dead) on May 4, and Bevrijdingsdag (Liberation Day) on May 5.

Related terms: The verb gedenken also means to remember or commemorate, with related noun gedenkdag for a day of remembrance. Herdenking and gedenken are common variants in discussions of memory and memorial events.

See also: Remembrance day, Memorial service, History of commemoration.