Forum Baby Names

Hazel in Dutch or English?

3 replies

NoortjeGuest ·
I really like the name Hazel, whether pronounced Dutch or English.
But which of the two pronunciations should I go with?
The Dutch one seems a bit more practical to me. I'm also generally in favor of a Dutch pronunciation (I'd rather have Jade than Djeed, for example).
But I think "Heezel" sounds just a tiny bit prettier than "Haazel".
What do you all think?

Replies

  1. madelene #2

    Personally, when I hear the name Hazel, I think of the cartoon "Hazel the Rabbit" and "The Tortoise and the Hare," and it reminds me of a cute little bunny
    It's not negative at all, just cute and sweet, but I can't really see it as a first name; it feels a bit ambiguous.
    The English pronunciation comes across more as a girl's name to me, and then I do think it's a nice name.
  2. Morag #3

    It also depends on the last name, I think. If you have an English last name or one that's very easy to pronounce in English (e.g., Simons), I'd go for the English pronunciation—it fits better that way. But if you have a very Dutch or Flemish last name, I'd say it's different. If the last name is Van de Steenbakker or Gortmaker, you'd be better off going with the Dutch pronunciation
  3. Anonymous Guest #4

    I think Morag's tip is good.
    Anyway, I don't really like Hazel, regardless of the pronunciation. I think a kid would quickly get teased for being called Hazelnut. In that case, the English version is a bit less teasing-sensitive.

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