The surname Alberi has a multiple origin, with possible toponymic, anthroponymic and nickname derivations. According to E. De Felice, it derives mainly from place names formed from àlbero (or its old variants àrbore, àlbaro), meaning "tree" or, in some cases, "white poplar". These place names —such as Albero, Alberi, Albera, Albereto or Alberone— were very widespread in Italy and gave rise to surnames indicating geographical provenance.

For his part, E. Rossoni proposes an alternative or complementary interpretation, noting that the surname could also derive from the medieval name Alberius. He also considers possible a nickname origin linked to the term "tree", whether in reference to a natural element characteristic of the environment (for example, living near a notable tree) or to an activity such as that of woodcutter.

As for its diffusion, the surname is present both in the north and in the peninsular south, which reinforces the idea of a broad and non-univocal origin.

Taken together, both interpretations agree in noting that Alberi may have different origins depending on the case: mainly toponymic, but also linked to medieval personal names or to nicknames related to the natural environment or the trade.