An Etymological Dictionary of the German Language/Schädel

by Friedrich Kluge

Schädel, m., ‘skull,’ from MidHG. schědel, m., ‘skull,’ and also ‘a dry measure’; ullied to Du. schedel, m.; unknown to the other OTeut. dials. (in OHG. gëbal, ‘skull,’ like Gr. κεφαλή; see Giebel). Its connection with Scheitel is conceivable.