'aldermaness' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'ealdorman,' where 'ealdor' meant 'elder' and 'man' referred to a person holding a position of authority.

'ealdorman' transformed into the Middle English word 'alderman,' and eventually became the modern English word 'aldermaness' to denote a female alderman.

Initially, it meant 'a person of authority or elder,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a female alderman.'