Thijs is a common Dutch given name that originated as a short form of Matthijs, the Dutch version of Matthias or Matthew. The name can also be a diminutive of Timothijs or Timotheus, Dutch forms of Timothy. As a patronymic surname, Thijs often means “son of Thijs,” but as a given name, it became widely used independently, especially in the Netherlands and Flanders. The digraph ij in Dutch represents a shared sound like the English “eye,” giving the name a distinctive pronunciation. Etymology and HistoryThe root name Matthew ultimately derives from the Hebrew name Mattityahu, meaning “gift of Yahweh.” In the New Testament, Matthew was one of the twelve apostles, a tax collector who later became an evangelist. The form Matthias appears as the apostle chosen to replace Judas Iscariot (Acts 1:23-26). The Dutch adaptation Matthijs gave rise to various diminutives: Ties, Tijs, and notably Thijs (often written Thijs or Thys). Over time, Thijs emerged as a standalone first name, particularly popular from the late 20th century onward. Records from the Netherlands show that Thijs consistently ranks among the top 100 male given names since the 1990s. Notable BearersSeveral prominent Dutchmen bear the name Thijs. Among them: Thijs Al (born 1980), a professional mountain biker and four-time Dutch national champion. Thijs Berman (born 1957), a politician serving in the European Parliament. Thijs van Leer (born 1948), a celebrated musician and flautist of the progressive rock band Focus. Thijs Libregts (born 1941), a renowned football coach who led Dutch and Greek clubs and the Saudi Arabian national team. Thijs de Vlieger (born 1980), a DJ and producer known for his work within the drum and bass trio Noisia. The name also appears as a surname, borne by such figures as Belgian footballer Bernd Thijs and politicians Erika and Erwin Thijs. Cultural SignificanceIn Dutch-speaking regions, Thijs is a staple short form that embodies the onomastic tradition of using a diminutive as a given name—similar to Kees from Cornelis or Bart from Bartholomeus. While it seldom appears outside the Netherlands and Belgium, certain expatriates have carried the name to other Dutch-influenced areas, as seen in Indonesian contexts. The form Thijs is occasionally rendered as Thys or Tys in non-Dutch records. Meaning: Short form of Matthias; ultimate origin: “Gift of God” (Yahweh). Origin: Dutch. Type: Diminutive / Given name (also surname). Usage Regions: Netherlands, Belgium (Flanders). Variants: Ties, Tijs, Thys.