What does the surname Kissel mean?

The surname Kissel means "One who makes or sells a fruit dessert or compote.". It is of German/Yiddish origin.

How common is the Kissel surname?

There are approximately 6,000 people with the surname Kissel in the United States.

Are there Kissel soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 76 soldiers with the Kissel surname appear in Civil War records.

Kissel

Occupational

Meaning

One who makes or sells a fruit dessert or compote.

Etymology

Derived from the Yiddish and German word 'kissel' (a fruit pudding or compote dish). The surname likely originated as an occupational name for a cook or food preparer.

About the Kissel Surname

An occupational surname indicating someone involved in food preparation, specifically the making of kissel. The name reflects culinary traditions of Germanic and Eastern European Jewish communities.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 6,000 bearers in the United States #1,589 most common surname

Rare Common

Found in Germany, Eastern Europe, and among Jewish communities worldwide.

Kissel Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Kissel Surname

John Kissel

Quick Facts

Origin: German/Yiddish
Classification: Occupational
Earliest Record: Medieval Germany/Eastern Europe
Estimated Bearers: 6,000

War Records

76 soldiers with the Kissel surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →