Femke is a Dutch and West Frisian feminine given name meaning 'little Fem,' derived as a diminutive of Femme, with the suffix -ke indicating smallness or affection. Originally a West Frisian name from the region of Opsterland and surroundings, Femke began to spread beyond Friesland around 1960, and has since become common in the Netherlands, Belgium, and parts of northwest Germany. Etymology The name traces its roots through Femme to the Old Germanic name Fridumar (or Friduman), composed of the Old German element fridu meaning 'peace' and a second element beginning with m, ultimately derived from mari meaning 'famous.' According to the Meertens Institute, Femme likely began as a children's form of names like Fridumar, which combines "fridu" (peace) and "mari" (famous). Thus, Femke is a diminutive of a chain that shortens a compound name, reflecting a pattern common in Frisian naming traditions. Notable Bearers While specific notable individuals are not detailed, the name Femke has been borne by over 26,000 women in the Netherlands and Belgium combined, based on historical naming data. In sports, Femke Bol (Dutch athlete) and Femke Heemskerk (Dutch swimmer) are well-known, though not referenced in the primary sources. The name peaked in popularity in the Netherlands in 1980 and again in 2001. Cultural Significance Femke symbolizes the Frisian naming tradition of forming affectionate nicknames. Its spread reflects the migration of Frisian names to wider Dutch society. Variants include Famke, also a Dutch diminutive form. The name is pronounced [ˈfɛmkə] in Dutch. Meaning: 'Little Fem,' diminutive of Femme Origin: West Frisian, via Old Germanic peace and fame elements Type: Feminine given name Usage regions: Netherlands, Belgium, Northwest Germany