Rotterdamsche

Rotterdamsche is an old-fashioned Dutch adjective meaning “of Rotterdam” or “from Rotterdam.” It was commonly used in historical and formal names to indicate origin or affiliation with the city of Rotterdam. In the course of spelling reforms and changes in naming conventions, the form has largely been replaced in modern official naming by Rotterdamse or by other constructions, but it remains visible in historical sources and legacy brands.

The most well-known use of the Rotterdamsche form is seen in Rotterdamsche Courant, a major Rotterdam-based newspaper with a long history in Dutch journalism. The name reflects the city’s central role in its branding and identity. Another notable example is Rotterdamsche Lloyd, a historic Dutch shipping line based in Rotterdam that used the form in its corporate designation. Beyond these, various older financial institutions, banks, and maritime companies from the Rotterdam region also carried the Rotterdamsche spelling in their official titles.

Today, Rotterdamsche appears mainly in historical contexts, archival references, or discussions of regional branding and the city’s past. The spelling provides insight into how Dutch place-based naming conventions have evolved, and it highlights the historical prominence of Rotterdam in Dutch commerce, media, and industry. See also Rotterdam; Rotterdamsche Courant; Rotterdamsche Lloyd.