The surname Widell has its origins in Scandinavia, specifically from Sweden. The name is believed to have been first recorded during the 17th century when surnames began to be adopted more widely for bureaucratic and tax purposes. The Swedish patronymic naming system began transitioning to family surnames around this time, which gave rise to names such as Widell.

The name Widell is derived from older Swedish words and could possibly be rooted in the word "wid," which translates to "wide" in English. This suggests that the name might have originally been a descriptive term, perhaps referring to a geographical feature such as a broad valley or field. Alternatively, it could have described an individual's physical characteristics, possibly someone of notable width or broadness.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Widell can be found in church records from the late 1600s. These records, which meticulously documented births, marriages, and deaths, provide evidence of a Johan Widell, born in 1683 in Uppsala, Sweden. His name appears in the local parish archives detailing his baptism and later, his marriage in 1709.

In the 18th century, another notable figure bearing the Widell surname is Anders Widell, born in 1735 in Stockholm and noted as a land surveyor who contributed to several cartographic studies of the Swedish countryside. His maps, inscribed with the Widell name, are still preserved in the Swedish National Archives.

By the 19th century, the name Widell had spread to other regions. Axel Widell, born in 1827 in Gothenburg, Sweden, is a distinguished figure remembered for his contributions to early industrial manufacturing processes in the region. His innovations in textile production earned him recognition and a lasting legacy within the Swedish industrial history.

Crossing into the 20th century, Bo Widell, born in 1908, emerged as a celebrated author and playwright in Stockholm. His works, often reflective of contemporary Swedish society, garnered critical acclaim and remain an integral part of Swedish literary studies.

Another significant individual is Eva Widell, born in 1965, who became a renowned painter and sculptor. Her artistic influence spread beyond Sweden, earning her international exhibitions and accolades. Her pieces often reflect modern interpretative styles and have been showcased in various European art galleries.

The surname Widell, while not overly common, has persisted through centuries, maintaining its presence in historical records and personal contributions across Swedish society.