seal (n.1) "design stamped on wax," early 13c., from O.Fr. seel (Fr. sceau), from V.L. *sigellum (cf. It. suggello, Sp. sello; also O.Fris., M.H.G. sigel, Ger. Siegel), from L. sigillum "small picture, engraved figure, seal," dim. of signu…