oude

Oude is a term used in Dutch-language toponymy and on occasion as a proper name. In most cases, it functions as a descriptive element rather than a stand‑alone place name.

Etymology and meaning: It derives from the Dutch adjective oud, meaning old. When used in place names, oude conveys that the location is historical or older in relation to another site or feature. The precise sense varies by locality and historical context.

Toponymic usage: The word appears predominantly in compound names within the Netherlands and the Flemish-speaking part of Belgium. It is typically found as part of a larger toponym, often indicating an older branch of a settlement, an old landmark such as a church or fort, or a place distinguished from a newer counterpart. In modern administration, many such names persist as traditional designations even when the features themselves have changed.

Other uses: Aside from geographic names, oude also appears in general Dutch as an inflected form of the adjective oude, used with definite articles in everyday speech, and occasionally appears in historical or literary references to denote antiquity.