sterling
/'stə:liɳ/
Definition
Adjective:
- Highest in quality; excellent; of the highest standard: Used to describe something of outstanding value, character, or workmanship.
- Genuine; of standard purity: Specifically refers to silver that is 92.5% pure, the standard for British coinage and high-quality silverware.
Noun:
- British money; especially the pound sterling as the basic monetary unit of the UK: The official currency of the United Kingdom.
- Sterling silver: Silver of 92.5% purity.
Usage Examples
Adjective:
- He is a person of sterling character. (He is a person of excellent and reliable character.)
- This is a sterling example of craftsmanship. (This is a prime example of high-quality craftsmanship.)
- The cutlery is made from sterling silver. (The cutlery is made from silver that is 92.5% pure.)
Noun:
- The price is listed in sterling. (The price is listed in British pounds.)
- She inherited a set of antique sterling. (She inherited a set of antique sterling silver items.)
Advanced Usage
"Sterling reputation": An excellent and highly respected reputation.
- The company has a sterling reputation for integrity. (The company is widely known for its excellent integrity.)
"Pound sterling": The full official name for the British currency unit.
- The invoice must be paid in pound sterling. (The invoice must be paid using British pounds.)
Variants and Related Words
- Sterlingly (adverb): In an excellent or admirable manner. (Rarely used)
- He performed sterlingly under pressure.
Synonyms
- Adjective: Excellent, superb, first-rate, impeccable, genuine, pure.
- Noun: Pound, GBP (Great British Pound), quid (British informal).
Related Phrases
- Sterling area/block: A historical group of countries that tied their currencies to the British pound.
- After the war, several Commonwealth nations were part of the sterling area.
Idioms
- "Sterling effort/work": A very good and praiseworthy attempt or piece of work.
- The team put in a sterling effort to finish the project on time. (The team made an excellent effort.)
Adjective
-
highest in quality
Noun
-
British money; especially the pound sterling as the basic monetary unit of the UK
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