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
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • 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
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Walter

      Origin 
      English

      Meaning 
      Army Ruler

      Variations 
      Walker, Waller, Alter

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Walter has a rich origin rooted in English language. Derived from the Old English elements weald meaning rule and here meaning army, Walter literally translates to Army Ruler. This name flourished during the medieval period and gained prominence as a given name among nobility and soldiers alike. Reflecting its original meaning, Walter symbolized strength, leadership, and governance in different historical contexts.

      In history, notable bearers of the name Walter can be found across various cultures. One such figure is Walter Raleigh, an English explorer, poet, and soldier who played a significant role in the colonization of North America. His accomplishments in the Elizabethan era were instrumental in shaping the history of early colonization efforts. In modern times, the name Walter retains its timeless appeal. While not as commonly used as it once was, it continues to be present in many English-speaking countries. Its rich historical background and powerful meaning make Walter an enduring choice for individuals seeking a name that exudes authority and valor.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Walter.
      Smith

      is the most common surname for Walter.

      Mary

      is the most common spouse name for Walter.

      Walter

      is the most common child name for Walter.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1900 is when there were the most people born with the first name Walter.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.