Last Name Alter

Learn more about the origin of the last name Alter

The meaning and origin of the last name Alter

The surname Alter has its origin in the Middle High German word "altere," which means "old" or "elder." As a surname, Alter was often bestowed upon the eldest member of a family or someone who held a position of authority within a community. It could also have been used to denote someone with wisdom or experience. Alternatively, the surname may have been given to an individual who was born on or near the Jewish holiday of Purim, which is referred to as "Alter Purim" in Yiddish. This name was most common among Ashkenazi Jews, particularly those from Eastern Europe, where surnames were mandated in the late 18th century. Over time, the surname Alter may have undergone variations or adaptations in different regions, leading to different spellings or linguistic alterations. Today, individuals with the surname Alter can be found around the world, especially in countries with a historical Jewish population.

Geographical distribution of the last name Alter

The last name Alter is derived from the German word "alter," meaning "old." The geographical distribution of the last name Alter is primarily concentrated in Germany, where it originated. It is particularly prevalent in the regions of Hessen, Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, and North Rhine-Westphalia. However, due to migration and emigration over the years, the name Alter can also be found in other parts of the world. Significant populations with the surname Alter exist in the United States, particularly in states with historically high levels of German immigration, such as Pennsylvania, New York, and Ohio. Other countries where the name Alter can be found include Canada, Israel, and Argentina, where individuals of German-Jewish descent settled. Overall, while the majority of individuals with the last name Alter can be found in Germany, the surname has spread to various countries around the world through historical and contemporary migration patterns.

Variants and spellings of the last name Alter

The last name Alter can be found spelled in various ways due to different regional influences and historical factors. Some common variations include Alther, Altar, Alterman, Altieri, Althoff, Alterman, Alten, Altman, Altemus, and Althouse. These variations primarily result from phonetic and spelling changes that occurred over time, as well as different cultural adaptations in different regions. For instance, the name Alterman suggests a connection to a man associated with the Alter surname. Similarly, Altieri represents the Italian adaptation of the surname, while Althoff reflects German influence. Whether spelled as Alter, Alther, or any of its variations, the name still retains its general meaning, indicating an alteration or change in some form. It is essential to consider these variations when tracing family lineages or researching historical records to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Famous people with the last name Alter

Some famous individuals with the last name Alter include Jonathan Alter, Daniel Alter, and Peter Alter. Jonathan Alter is a well-known American author and political commentator who has written several books on American politics and history. He has also been a columnist for various reputable publications such as Newsweek and Bloomberg. Daniel Alter, on the other hand, is a renowned American film producer and writer, best known for his work in films like Hitman and The App. Lastly, Peter Alter is a prominent German-Jewish historian who has extensively documented the history of Jews in Germany. He has published multiple books on the Holocaust and modern German history, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of these critical historical events. These famous people with the last name Alter have excelled in their respective fields, leaving lasting impacts in journalism, film, and historical research.

Genealogical research on the last name Alter

The genealogical research on the last name Alter reveals an interesting history that dates back several centuries. The name Alter appears to have originated from Germany, particularly in the Bavarian region. It is derived from the German word "alt," meaning old or elder. The family name Alter may have initially been used as a nickname to distinguish an older individual within a community. Over time, it evolved into a hereditary surname, passed down through generations. The Alter family has a documented presence in various regions of Germany, such as Bavaria, Saxony, and Hessen. Furthermore, with the migration of people, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries, members of the Alter family have spread across Europe, the United States, and other parts of the world. Through rigorous research, numerous branches of the Alter family have been identified, enabling the current generation to trace their ancestral roots and understand their rich heritage.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Alter"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025