Seidel

Seidel is a German surname that originated as a diminutive of the Middle High German word 'sît' meaning 'side' or 'sîde' meaning 'silk'. It could also be a diminutive of 'Seid' which refers to a small measure of liquid, often a small beer mug or kettle. Therefore, the name likely originated as a topographic name for someone living by a side or slope, or a metonymic occupational name for a maker or seller of small kettles or a tavern keeper. It is also possible it was a nickname for someone small or slender, or someone associated with silk.

The surname is common in German-speaking regions and has spread to other parts of the world through migration. Over time, some surnames, especially those with clear meanings or associations, were occasionally adopted as given names, though Seidel is primarily recognized as a surname.