lampjes

Lampje is the diminutive form of lamp in Dutch, used to refer to a small lamp or light source. The term covers a wide range of devices, from decorative string lights to compact bedside lamps, as well as the small bulbs used inside electronic devices. In everyday speech, lampje also denotes indicator lights on equipment, dashboards, and appliances.

Etymology and history: Lampje comes from lamp with the diminutive suffix -je. Historically, small electric lamps became common in households in the 20th century, evolving from carbon-filament bulbs to tungsten and, later, to energy-efficient technologies such as fluorescent and LED lamps. The word is now used for both hardware lighting and signaling lights.

Types and usage: Decorative lampjes include fairy lights, lanterns, and table or wall lamps used for mood lighting. Night lampjes provide soft illumination during darkness. Indicator lampjes are small lights on electronic devices indicating power, status, or warnings and are common on cars, appliances, and control panels.

Technology and energy: Most lampjes today operate as LED lampjes or compact fluorescent equivalents, replacing older incandescent bulbs. LEDs offer lower energy consumption, longer life, and greater design flexibility, while maintaining a familiar light quality. The choice of lampje depends on brightness, color temperature, size, and power supply.

Safety and disposal: Lampjes should comply with electrical safety standards and be used with appropriate voltage. Used bulbs should be disposed of according to local recycling guidelines, with LED and fluorescent lamps treated separately due to materials such as mercury in some older types.