vleugje

Vleugje is a Dutch noun meaning a small portion or trace of something, and, literally, a small wing. In contemporary Dutch it is used both in literal and figurative senses. Literally, vleugje can refer to a small fragment of a wing, but in practice it is almost exclusively used metaphorically for a very small amount or nuance.

In cooking or food writing, vleugje indicates a small addition: “een vleugje zout,” “een vleugje citroen.” The phrase is common in recipes and menu descriptions, signaling that the ingredient should be added lightly to preserve balance rather than to dominate.

Figuratively, vleugje is used to express nuance or atmosphere, as in “een vleugje romantiek,” “een vleugje humor,” or “een vleugje mysterie.” The term can also convey a subtlety or trace of something that is not dominant but noticeable, making it a versatile descriptor in prose and poetry.

Etymology: the word is a diminutive form associated with the idea of a small portion; its exact historical development is not always clear in modern summaries, but it has evolved into a general metaphor for a slight amount or hint.

Usage notes: vleugje is a count noun and typically occurs with “een”; it can function in constructions like “met een vleugje” or “een vleugje van.” It is common across Dutch-speaking regions and in both spoken and written style, from casual to literary.

Related terms include een beetje, een snufje, een tikje, tint, and zweem.