Kleintjes

Kleintjes is a Dutch term that functions as the plural form of kleintje, a diminutive of klein meaning small. The word literally translates to “little ones” and is commonly used as an affectionate reference to young children or to small animals. The diminutive suffix -tje is added to the base adjective klein to form kleintje, and the plural is kleintjes.

In everyday language, de kleintjes refers to the children in a family, class, or group, and can also describe small, cute animals or objects. The term is versatile and may be used in both neutral and affectionate contexts, depending on the tone and situation. For example, people might say, de kleintjes spelen buiten (the little ones are playing outside) or knuffel de kleintjes (hug the little ones).

Linguistically, kleintje is the singular form, kleintjes the plural, and both derive from Klein with the Dutch diminutive suffix -tje. Diminutives like kleintje often convey smallness or endearment and are widespread in Dutch to create a friendly or tender nuance.

Although primarily a generic term, kleintjes can appear in parenting dialogue, household conversation, and Dutch-language media to evoke warmth or familiarity with children or small creatures. It is not tied to a specific proper noun and does not denote a distinct organization, person, or work, but rather a common lexical item in Dutch. See also Dutch diminutives and the -tje suffix for related linguistic usage.