'alnager' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'aunage,' where 'aun' meant 'ell' (a unit of measurement) and '-age' denoted an agent noun.

'aunage' transformed into the Old French word 'aunagier,' and eventually became the modern English word 'alnager' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'one who measures cloth,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an official who examines and measures woolen cloth.'