Gezelligheid

Gezelligheid (Dutch pronunciation: [ɣɘ.'zɛl.ɪɣ.hɛɪt]) is a Dutch word which, depending on context, can be translated as convivial, cozy, fun, or nice atmosphere, but can also show someone belonging, time spent with loved ones, the fact of seeing a friend after a long absence, or the general togetherness that gives people a warm feeling.

The only common trait to all descriptions of gezelligheid is a rather general and abstract sensation of individual well-being that one typically shares with others. All descriptions involve a positive atmosphere, flow or vibe that colors the individual personal experience in a favorable way and in one way or another corresponds to social contexts.

As this is a very vague and abstract notion, the word is considered to be an example of untranslatability, and is one of the hardest words to translate to English. Some consider the word to encompass the heart of Dutch culture.^[1]

Etymology

The word derives from gezel which means companion or friend. During the Middle Ages a gezel was also the Dutch term for a journeyman, which in the Dutch guild system formed a group around a single Master craftsman; hence the added meaning of belonging.^[2]

Use

The adjective gezellig can be used in a wide variety of situations:^[3]

• A room can be gezellig. (meaning cozy or inviting)
• A person can be gezellig. (meaning entertaining or pleasant)
• A party can be gezellig. (meaning fun)
• A visit to ones grandparents can be gezellig. (meaning togetherness)

Gezellig can also be used as an exclamation, which can either carry the meanings described above or be used sarcastically or ironically or to express enthusiasm for an upcoming event such as one of the above.

Similar words

• The Danish word hygge ([ˈhyɡə]) is very close in meaning. Etymologically, it is related to the Dutch word "heugen", meaning to remember.
• The German term Gemütlichkeit (of which "gemoedelijkheid" is its Dutch cognate), invoking coziness and comfort and which has also been adopted by the English language, covers some of the possible meanings of gezellig, but not all. Although the German term Geselligkeit does look a lot like the Dutch word, it has a different meaning.
• The Yiddish word heimishe.
• Norwegians also have a word, "koselig", that means a sense of coziness.

References

1. Seth Stevenson, "The Quest for Gezellig," in "Should I Move to Amsterdam," Slate 23, Aug, 2005, available at http://www.slate.com/articles/life/welltraveled/features/2005/should_i_move_to_amsterdam/the_quest_for_gezellig.html. See also "Gezellig — a word that encompasses the heart of Dutch Culture," at http://www.dutchamsterdam.nl/155-gezellig
2. Van Dale etymologisch woordenboek
3. All examples given come from the book The Undutchables, by C. White.