Surname Alt - Meaning and Origin
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U. Alt
read moreAlt: What does the surname Alt mean?
The last name Alt is of German origin and it translates to "old" in English. It is a nickname or descriptive surname often given to someone who was elderly or perhaps to the older of two individuals bearing the same first name. It could also refer to someone who lived in an old house. It was a common practice in medieval times to refer to people by their characteristics, occupation, location, or any specific incidences. Thus, the surname Alt might have originated from such traditions. Furthermore, this surname is prevalent in various countries, including Germany, the United States, France, and others, albeit with a potential variation in its connotation or spelling. It's also important to bear in mind that the translation or meaning could change based on geographical or regional influences.
Order DNA origin analysisAlt: Where does the name Alt come from?
The last name Alt originates from Germany and is derived from the Old German word "alt," which means 'old'. It is a topographic name for someone who lived near an old feature, such as a mountain, a building, or a road. Alternatively, it could also be a nickname for someone who is wise beyond their years, or already old despite their age. The Alt surname can also be traced back to Jewish roots with an Ashkenazi heritage. Today, it is most common in Germany, but it can also be found in decent numbers in the United States, Canada, Brazil, and Argentina due to migration over the years. Most of those bearing the Alt surname in America are descendants of immigrants from Germany. The influence of this surname is not limited to these regions and can be found globally due to increased mobility and globalization.
Variations of the surname Alt
The surname Alt is of German origin and is derived from a nickname meaning "old". It predominantly refers to eldership or seniority within a clan or community. Despite its simple spelling, the name has several variants and similar surnames stemming from the same or similar etymological roots.
Variations of the surname Alt can include Alth, Allt, Altz, Alts, Alte and Ault. Equivalents in other languages, stemming from the same nickname for an old or elder person, could include the English Old or Olds, the Yiddish Alter, the Italian D'Anto or Antolini, and the French Vieille or Vieillard, to mention a few.
In terms of similar surnames, they can range from single syllable monikers such as Holt, Colt, and Alts to longer names like Alterman, Altman, Altenburg, Altendorf, etc.
These variations, among many others, reflect the different ways in which surnames can be adapted and transformed over time, through linguistic changes, migrations and cultural adaptations.
Famous people with the name Alt
- Carol Alt: An American model and actress, she has graced the covers of numerous magazines including Sports Illustrated and Playboy. Alt is considered one of the most successful models of the 1980s.
- Nina Alt: A former German footballer who played as a goalkeeper for the Germany women's national football team and also clubs, including Bayern Munich.
- Wilhelm Alt: A German archaeologist who was a noted prehistorian with a focus on the Stone Age.
- Franz Alt: An Austrian landscape painter and graphic artist.
- Evelyn Alt: A fashion model, she has worked in the media industry since 2002 and has posed for multiple brands and designers.
- Walter Alt: A member of the German Bundestag from 1980 to 1994, he was part of the Social Democratic Party of Germany.
- Sophie Alt: A translator, known for her translation work of the French philosopher, Alain Badiou.
- Rick Alt: An American football player who played in the National Football League (NFL) in the 1980s.
- Judy Alt: An American professional golfer who played on the LPGA Tour.
- Bill Alt: A Canadian professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey Association (NHA). Please note, not all individuals listed may meet the criteria for "famous", but they are-all public figures with noted contributions in their respective fields.