Heintje

Heintje is a Dutch and Low German diminutive form of Heinrich, itself derived from the Old High German name Heimirich, composed of the elements heim, meaning home or homeland, and rîchi, meaning ruler or power, giving the overall sense of ruler of the home. The name gained particular affectionate use in the Netherlands and northern Germany as a familiar pet form for boys named Hendrik or Heinrich. It became widely recognized in the late 1960s through the Dutch child singing star Heintje Simons, who achieved remarkable popularity across Europe. Related forms include Heinz, Henk, Hein, and the Anglicized Henry.