Jessel

Origin and Meaning

The surname Jessel is of English origin, derived from the given name "Jessie", which is a diminutive form of the name "Jessica". The name "Jessica" itself has Hebrew roots, believed to be derived from the name "Iscah", mentioned in the Old Testament. Jessel also has connections to Germanic and Yiddish languages.

Variants

Variants of the Jessel surname include Jessell and Jezzard.

Distribution

The surname Jessel has been predominantly found in England and parts of Europe. Over time, members of the Jessel family have migrated to other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Australia, and Canada.

Notable Individuals

  • Sir George Jessel (1824–1883): Renowned English jurist and politician who served as the Master of the Rolls, known for his significant contributions to English legal jurisprudence.

  • Sir Herbert Jessel, 1st Baronet (1824–1918): British civil servant and politician, who held several government positions, notably serving as a Member of Parliament.

Coat of Arms

The Jessel coat of arms features heraldic symbols associated with strength, honour, and fidelity. The shield is divided vertically, often featuring a lion rampant and other traditional elements.

Legacy

The Jessel surname carries a legacy of legal and political achievements, with notable individuals contributing to various fields of society. Today, descendants of the Jessel family continue to uphold their heritage and contribute to diverse fields around the world.

There are approximately 159 people named Jessel in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Jessel.

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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