IPA Pronunciation

/ˈsɔːltər/

Say It Like

Syllables

The name Salter derives from the Old English and Norman French word 'salter', meaning 'one who salts or sells salt.' Historically, salt was a precious commodity, and the Salter was an important trade profession. This occupational surname became a given name, symbolizing preservation and value.

Cultural Significance of Salter

In medieval Europe, salt was vital for food preservation and trade, making the role of the salter highly respected. The name reflects this historical importance and is linked to merchants and early urban professional classes. Over time, it transitioned from surname to first name, carrying connotations of reliability and value across English-speaking cultures.

Salter Name Popularity in 2025

Though not commonly used as a first name today, Salter has a strong, vintage charm appealing to parents seeking unique, occupational names with historical roots. It fits well within the trend of reviving surnames as first names and evokes a sense of heritage, stability, and industriousness in contemporary naming.

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Popular Nicknames10

SalSaltySallyAlSaltoTerSalsSaltoeSaltsSalterino
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International Variations10

SalterSaltererSalterioSaltierSaltaireSaltereSaltarSaltierroSaltorSaltarino

Similar Names You Might Love6

Name Energy & Essence

The name Salter carries the essence of “Keeper or seller of salt” from Old English / Norman French tradition. Names beginning with "S" often embody qualities of spirituality, sensitivity, and inner strength.

Symbolism

Cultural Significance

In medieval Europe, salt was vital for food preservation and trade, making the role of the salter highly respected. The name reflects this historical importance and is linked to merchants and early urban professional classes. Over time, it transitioned from surname to first name, carrying connotations of reliability and value across English-speaking cultures.

William Salter

English politician and member of Parliament in the 16th century

Richard Salter

Inventor of the first spring scale in the 18th century

John Salter

English merchant and salt trader influential in medieval trade routes

Henry Salter

Prominent 19th-century British civil engineer

Thomas Salter

Early American settler and landowner

Samuel Salter

Noted 19th-century English author and historian

George Salter

20th-century German-American book designer

Edward Salter

British botanist known for work on plant salt tolerance

Salinero

🌐Spanish

Saler

🌐French

Salzer

🌐German

Salatore

🌐Italian

ソルター (Sorutā)

🌐Japanese

盐商 (Yán shāng)

🌐Chinese

تاجر الملح (Tajir al-milh)

🌐Arabic

Fun Fact About Salter

The profession of a salter was once so important that salt merchants influenced the economy and politics in medieval towns.

Personality Traits for Salter

Individuals named Salter are often perceived as dependable, grounded, and practical. They may have a natural inclination toward leadership and responsibility, valuing tradition and hard work. Their personalities may blend a reserved nature with an underlying strength and resourcefulness.

What does the name Salter mean?

Salter is a Old English / Norman French name meaning “Keeper or seller of salt”. The name Salter derives from the Old English and Norman French word 'salter', meaning 'one who salts or sells salt.' Historically, salt was a precious commodity, and the Salter was an important trade profession. This occupational surname became a given name, symbolizing preservation and value.

How do you pronounce Salter?

Salter is pronounced (IPA: /ˈsɔːltər/). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.

What are nicknames for Salter?

Popular nicknames for Salter include: Sal, Salty, Sally, Al, Salto, Ter, Sals, Saltoe, Salts, Salterino.

Who are famous people named Salter?

Famous people named Salter include: , , , , .

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Salter is a beautiful Old English / Norman French name meaning “Keeper or seller of salt”. The name Salter derives from the Old English and Norman French word 'salter', meaning 'one who salts or sells salt.' Historically, salt was a precious commodity, and the Salter was an important trade ...

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