Dutch is full of playful words that mimic real-life sounds. Whether it’s a dog barking or rain falling, these onomatopoeias make the language vivid and fun. Here’s a quick guide to the best ones.
Animal Sounds
Waf
/ʋɑf/“Woof”
The sound a dog makes. Smaller dogs might go waf waf, while big dogs go woef woef.
Miauw
/miˈɑu/“Meow”
The classic cat sound. Also used when calling a cat.
Nature & Weather
Plons
/plɔns/“Splash”
The sound of something hitting water. Think raindrops or a jumping frog.
Ruisen
/ˈrœy̯sə(n)/“Rustle”
The soft sound of wind through leaves or paper.
Everyday Noises
Knars
/knɑrs/“Creak”
The sound of an old door or floorboard. If you hear this at night, good luck sleeping.
Tik
/tɪk/“Tick”
The sound of a clock or a light tap.
Fun fact: Dutch onomatopoeias often appear in comics. If you’re into Dutch baby talk, you’ll hear these even more!
Action Sounds
Boem
/bum/“Boom”
An explosion, a loud crash, or even a drumbeat.
Klets
/klɛts/“Slap”
The sound of a hand hitting skin - or a wet fish hitting a table.
Want more Dutch fun? Check out the funniest Dutch words or Dutch proverbs for wisdom.
Pro tip: Try using these in conversation. Dutch speakers will love it!
