Definition of: sterling

(stûr′ling) noun
1. The official standard of fineness for British coins: for silver (sterling silver), 0.925 until 1920, 0.500 since then; for gold, 0.91666 or 11/12.
2. Sterling silver, 0.925 fine, as used in manufacturing articles, as tableware, etc.; also, an article or articles made of it.
3. A former silver penny of England and Scotland, in circulation as early as the 12th century.
—adjective
1. Made of or payable in sterling: pounds sterling.
2. Made of sterling silver.
3. Having accepted worth; genuine; hence, valuable; esteemed: sterling qualities. See synonyms under GOOD. [Prob. steorra star + -LING; because a star was stamped on some of the coins]