Wessel

German

"protecting army"

Wessel Origin and Meaning

The name Wessel is a boy's name of Dutch origin.

Wessel is a masculine name with Germanic and Dutch origins. Derived from the medieval Germanic name 'Wessilo' or 'Wesselin,' it's a diminutive form meaning 'little descendant of Wesso.' The root 'wes' relates to concepts of vigor and liveliness. Wessel has been consistently used in the Netherlands and parts of Germany for centuries, though it has always remained relatively uncommon. In Dutch communities, it carries traditional appeal and historical significance. The name experienced brief popularity in South Africa among Dutch-descended Afrikaner communities. With its strong consonants and distinctive sound, Wessel conveys a sense of solidity and heritage. This rare but accessible name offers international character while still being relatively straightforward to spell and pronounce.

Famous People Named Wessel

• Wessel Freiherr Freytag von Loringhoven German military commander and member of the German Resistance
• Wessel Harmensz Gansfort Dutch theologian and early humanist
• Wessel Myburgh Namibian cricketer
• Marthinus Wessel Pretorius first president of the South African Republic
• Wessel van Diepen Dutch radio host
• Wessel Roux South African rugby union player