Oldham is however known to be a derivative of Aldehulme, undoubtedly an Old Norse name. It is believed to be derived from the Old English ald combined with the Old Norse holmi or holmr, meaning "promontory or outcrop", possibly describing the town's hilltop position.

Why is it called Oldham?

habitational name from the place in Lancashire, so named from Middle English ald, old 'old' + holm 'island', 'dry land in a fen', 'promontory'. topographic name from Old English (e)ald 'old' + hamm 'water meadow', 'low-lying land by a river'.

What is a person from Oldham called?

The demonym of Oldham is Oldhamer; however, this list may include people from Chadderton, Failsworth, Lees, Royton, Saddleworth, and Shaw and Crompton, all from the wider Metropolitan Borough of Oldham.