alt

1 of 2

abbreviation

1
alternate
2
altitude
3
alto

alt-

2 of 2

combining form

alternative
alt-country
alt-media
alt-right

Word History

Etymology

Combining form

shortening of alternative entry 1

Note: The popularity of alt- as an initial element in word formation followed the adoption of the hierarchy label alt.* on the computer discussion network Usenet in 1987, as groups with this prefix as the first element were seen as alternatives to the mainstream newsgroups. However, combinations with quasi-adjectival alt can be found earlier, as, for example alt rock as a shortening of alternative rock, dating from no later than 1982.

Dictionary Entries Near alt

Cite this Entry

“Alt.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alt. Accessed 5 Oct. 2024.

Medical Definition

alt

1 of 2 abbreviation
1
alternate
2
altitude

More from Merriam-Webster on alt

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