Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • All Collections
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2006-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Alterman

      Origin

      Hebrew, Yiddish

      Meaning

      Alter Means Old or Elder

      Variations

      Altermann, Elterman, Eltermann
      The surname Alterman derives from the Hebrew and Yiddish word Alter, which translates to old or elder. This term connotes wisdom, respect, and seniority, often reflecting a person's status within the community. The suffix man is a common element in surnames, indicating a person associated with or belonging to a particular trait or characteristic. Therefore, Alterman can be understood as one who is old or a person of elder status, often implying experience and authority.

      Historically, the name has connections to Jewish communities in Europe, particularly among Ashkenazi Jews. It emerged as a surname during the 18th and 19th centuries, a time when many Jewish families began adopting surnames in accordance with civil laws in various European countries. The use of Alter as a familial identifier reflects cultural values that place a high significance on age and wisdom. Over time, the name has appeared in various forms, adapting to regional languages and dialects, yet maintaining its core meaning.

      In contemporary society, Alterman is found in various contexts, including as a surname for individuals across the globe, particularly in the United States, Israel, and Europe. The name continues to evoke its historical roots, often associated with families that take pride in their heritage and lineage. Additionally, the name can be seen in professional and cultural fields, ranging from the arts to academia, illustrating the ongoing relevance of its historical significance. As societies increasingly embrace multiculturalism and the valorization of diverse backgrounds, the name Alterman retains its authoritative connotation of wisdom and experience within both personal and professional realms.

      Based on our records...

      Zinn

      Zinn

      This is the most common surname associated with Alterman.
      Anna

      Anna

      This is the most common name of those married to a Alterman.
      Johannes

      Johannes

      This is the most common name for a child of a Alterman.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1680 is when there were the most people born with the first name Alterman.

      Explore the origins of another name.