This is the 581st most frequent Afrikaans word.
elsje
“Elsje” is a diminutive form of the name “Els,” often used as a term of endearment or a personal name in Afrikaans.
Here, 'elsje' refers to a type of tree, specifically the Alder tree.
Ek het 'n pragtige elsje in die tuin gesien.
I saw a beautiful Alder tree in the garden.
Here, 'elsje' is used as a proper noun, a pet name or name for a being.
Sy het haar troeteldier voëltjie Elsje genoem.
She named her pet bird Elsje.
In this context, 'elsje' refers to a small tool, commonly known as an awl, used in needlework for piercing.