An Etymological Dictionary of the German Language/Annotated/Stapel

by Friedrich Kluge

Stapel, masculine, ‘support, stocks (for ships),’ Modern High German only, a Low German word, corresponding to High German Staffel. Compare Dutch stapel, ‘heap, staple-town,’ English staple (hence French étape, ‘depot, emporium’). “The development of meaning in the cognates ranges through the meanings ‘support (Anglo-Saxon stapol), foundation (Old High German staffol), frame, heap, piled up goods.’” See the following word.