STERLING, a. [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, n. 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.]
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