Wetzel

German

"protecting army"

Wetzel Origin and Meaning

The name Wetzel is a boy's name of German origin.

Wetzel is a masculine surname that has occasionally transitioned to first-name usage. It derives from German origins, specifically from a diminutive form of the name Werner, meaning 'army defender' or 'protecting army.' Alternatively, it may relate to the Middle High German word 'wetzen,' meaning 'to sharpen.' Historically, Wetzel was more common in Germanic regions as a family name. As a first name, it remains exceptionally rare in the United States and most English-speaking countries. The name carries a strong consonant sound and distinctive Germanic character. Notable references include Wetzel County in West Virginia, named after Lewis Wetzel, a frontiersman and Native American fighter in the late 18th century.

Famous People Named Wetzel

• "Judge" Wetzel Orson Whitaker American Mormon filmmaker

The name Wetzel in Pop Culture

• Wetzel's Pretzels American pretzel chain