* From the place name "Alvarado": This is the most likely origin. It refers to a place in Spain, most likely in the region of Asturias, where the surname originated. The place name itself is derived from the words "alvar" (meaning "alder tree") and "ado" (meaning "place of"). Therefore, Alvarado literally means "place of alders."
* From the given name "Álvaro": The surname Alvarado could also be a patronymic, meaning it is derived from the given name of the father. "Álvaro" is a Spanish name with Germanic origins, meaning "wise counselor" or "wise guardian."
The specific meaning of the surname Alvarado for a particular individual would depend on their family history and where their ancestors originated.
It's important to note that surname meanings are not always straightforward and can be subject to multiple interpretations.