STERLING, adjective [probably from Easterling.] 1. An epithet by which English money of account is distinguished; as a pound sterling; a shilling sterling; a penny sterling It is not now applied to the coins of England; but sterling cost, sterling value are used. 2. Genuine; pure; of excellent quality; as a work of sterling merit; a man of sterling wit or good sense. STERLING, noun 1. English money. And Roman wealth in English sterling view. In this use, sterling may signify English coins. 2. Standard; rate. [Little used in either sense.]
Source: Webster's 1828 American Dictionary ↗ · public-domain · returned verbatim, no AI