Recorded around 1300 as the name of an English silver penny, sterling has a much-debated origin. It may come from Middle English sterre, meaning star, plus -ling, perhaps referring to stars on some Norman coins. The word later broadened to standard English money and silver purity, then developed its approving sense of quality able to stand a test.
What does sterling mean?
Sterling can mean British money, silver of standard 92.5 percent purity, or excellent and dependable quality.
How is sterling pronounced?
In General American English, sterling is pronounced /ˈstɝlɪŋ/.
Is sterling another name for the British pound?
Yes. In financial use, sterling means the British currency based on the pound, also called the pound sterling.
What does sterling mean when praising someone?
The formal approving adjective sterling means excellent, dependable, and worthy of admiration, as in sterling work or sterling character.
How pure is sterling silver?
Sterling silver is normally at least 92.5 percent silver, with the remainder made from another metal such as copper.
Can sterling be plural?
Modern currency and silver senses are normally uncountable. The regular plural sterlings occurs only when referring to individual medieval silver pennies.
Where does sterling come from?
Sterling was recorded around 1300 for an English silver penny. Its deeper origin is disputed, though it may be connected with stars shown on some coins.