Pronunciation: [ˈaltən] (IPA) 
The spelling of "Alton" is pronounced as /ˈɔːltən/ or "awl-tuhn". The first syllable "alt" is pronounced with the "aw" sound, which represents an open back rounded vowel. The second syllable "ton" is pronounced with the "uhn" sound, which represents a mid central vowel. The phonetic transcription in IPA helps to accurately represent the pronunciation of the word "Alton", which is often used as a name for individuals, places, and businesses.
Alton is a proper noun and can refer to various places and individuals. As a place name, Alton commonly refers to towns or cities in different countries, including England, the United States, and Canada. As an English habitational surname, it originated from various locations named Alton across the British Isles.
The name "Alton" refers to a small market town in Hampshire, England. It is situated in the southwestern region of the country and lies on the River Wey. Alton is known for its rich history, dating back to the Saxon period, and features notable landmarks such as Alton Castle, the Church of St. Lawrence, and Jane Austen's House Museum.
In the United States, Alton is the name of several towns and cities, the most prominent being Alton, Illinois. Situated in Madison County, Illinois, Alton is located along the Mississippi River. It played a significant role in the 19th-century industrial era and is famous for being the hometown of renowned abolitionist and writer Elijah Lovejoy.
Additionally, "Alton" can also be a personal name given to individuals. It is of Old English origin and means "old town" or "old settlement," reflecting its etymology as a place name. People named Alton often possess traits such as strength, loyalty, and a strong sense of tradition.
The word "Alton" has Old English origins. It is believed to be derived from the Old English personal name "Ælfa" or "Ælf", meaning "elf", combined with "tūn", meaning "enclosure" or "settlement". Therefore, the name "Alton" originally referred to a settlement associated with Ælfa or Ælf.
