Definition: The word "Alderman" comes from a Latin root meaning "of the earth." It was originally used by the Romans to refer to people who lived on the land, particularly in ancient Rome. In English, "alderman" is an officer or administrator of the church, often known as a deacon, at the Church of England's synod (the assembly or council for the diocese), and it has been used in various ways in scripture. It can also refer to a person who serves as the head of a village or parish. The precise meaning of "Alderman" is not specified in the Bible but scholars believe its origin may be from the way churches were organized, with each congregation being led by an Alderman. In the New Testament, this role was often given to elders or deacons. The apostle Paul spoke about a kind of church council known as a synod (which he referred to as "the assembly" or "the Council") that was convened in Rome to discuss ecclesiastical matters and governance. This Synod would likely have been led by an Alderman, acting as the head of the Church. The use of this term in the Bible is not a specific name but rather a general description of being a member of a church council or governing body.