Dutch · Culture & Society
de koning
king
Intermediatenoun
Definition
The male ruler of a country.
Example
De koning van Nederland heet Willem-Alexander.
The king of the Netherlands is called Willem-Alexander.
Etymology
'Koning' is derived from the Middle Dutch 'coninc' or 'koning', which traces back to Old High German 'kuning', meaning 'king'. The word has kept its meaning throughout its historical evolution.
How & Where It’s Used
'De koning' is used formally in political contexts and informally in everyday conversations, primarily in written text and formal speeches.
Literary Heritage
Found in various Dutch historical literature and discussed in the context of Dutch monarchy and folklore.