The name Gissel finds its origins in the Middle Ages, derived from the Old German word "gisal," which translates to "hostage" or "pledge." This name was prominent during the medieval period, particularly in regions where Germanic languages were spoken, such as present-day Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

In the early centuries of the Middle Ages, the practice of taking hostages or pledges was common among noble families and rulers as a means of ensuring the fulfillment of treaties or agreements. The name Gissel may have been given to children born during such exchanges or to symbolize the commitment of a pledge.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Gissel can be found in the Nibelungenlied, a renowned German epic poem from around the 13th century. In this literary work, Giselher is the name of one of the main characters, the youngest son of King Gunther and Queen Ute.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Gissel. One such figure was Gissel von Östringen (c. 1200-1270), a German noblewoman and landowner who played a significant role in the politics of her time. Another was Gissel von Rosenberg (1310-1390), a Bohemian noblewoman and wife of Peter I of Rosenberg, a prominent nobleman in the Kingdom of Bohemia.

In the 15th century, Gissel von Hohenzollern (1445-1505) was a German princess and duchess, known for her patronage of the arts and her charitable works. She was a member of the influential Hohenzollern family, which would later rule over Brandenburg and Prussia.

Moving into the early modern period, Gissel von Gottorp (1594-1668) was a Danish princess and duchess, renowned for her intelligence and involvement in the cultural affairs of her time. She was a patron of the arts and sciences, and her court in Schleswig-Holstein attracted many notable scholars and artists.

Another noteworthy individual was Gissel von Mecklenburg-Schwerin (1637-1701), a German noblewoman and duchess who played a significant role in the politics and governance of the Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin during her lifetime.

While the name Gissel has its roots in the Middle Ages and was particularly prevalent in Germanic regions, it has since spread to other parts of the world, albeit with varying spellings and pronunciations. However, its historical significance and associations with nobility, pledges, and hostages remain an integral part of its etymology and cultural heritage.