sterling
Fine silver standard
Sterling describes something of excellent quality or character: a sterling reputation, sterling work.
The word comes from British currency—the pound sterling—which once referred to silver of a specific purity.
Sterling silver contains 92.5% pure silver, the standard for fine silverware and jewelry.
The adjective extends from this sense of reliable, proven value: She gave a sterling performance. (Capitalized Sterling is a given name or surname.)
Worthy of confidence
- dependableWorthy of trust
- reliableConsistently performing as expected
- upstandingMorally upright, honest
- honorableHaving high moral standards
steadfast · loyal · faithful · exemplary · impeccable · admirable · respectable · irreproachable
Of superior quality
- first-rateOf superior quality
- superbExtremely impressive, first-rate
- exceptionalNotably above the norm
- superiorHigher in rank
fine · premium · top-notch · distinguished · high-grade · prime · choice · select
Distinguishing characteristic or mark
- silversmithMaker of silver objects
- tarnishOxidation discoloration on metal
- polishSmooth by rubbing
- flatwareEating utensils collectively
teapot · cutlery · candelabra · engraving · platter · goblet · tray · pendant
Weight, strike, or kennel
- penceBritish currency units
- banknotesPaper currency notes
- coinsMetal money units
- exchangeMutual giving and receiving
forex · monetary · Bank of England · cable · quid · devaluation · appreciation · reserve currency
trustworthy
Worthy of confidence
- dependableWorthy of trust
- reliableConsistently performing as expected
- upstandingMorally upright, honest
honorable · steadfast · loyal · faithful · exemplary · impeccable · admirable · respectable · irreproachable · stalwart
excellent
Of superior quality
- first-rateOf superior quality
- superbExtremely impressive, first-rate
- exceptionalNotably above the norm
superior · fine · premium · top-notch · distinguished · high-grade · prime · choice · select · elite
hallmark
Distinguishing characteristic or mark
- silversmithMaker of silver objects
- tarnishOxidation discoloration on metal
- polishSmooth by rubbing
flatware · teapot · cutlery · candelabra · engraving · platter · goblet · tray · pendant · earrings
pound
Weight, strike, or kennel
exchange · forex · monetary · Bank of England · cable · quid · devaluation · appreciation · reserve currency · City of London
sterlingfake
Not the real thing
counterfeit · plated · silver-plated · false · imitation
sterlingdisreputable
Having poor standing
dishonorable · corrupt · shameful · ignoble · untrustworthy
- sterling silverJewelry-quality alloyed precious metal
- pound sterlingBritain's official money