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Introduction
The English language is full of surprises, and one of the most curious ones is the phenomenon of naming people after common nouns. We have names like Rose, Lily, and Jade, which are all based on the names of plants. But one of the most interesting examples is the name Sterling, which comes from a compound that was once used as a currency.
The Origin of Sterling
The word “sterling” originally referred to a type of silver coin that was minted in England from the 12th century onwards. The name comes from the Old Norman word “esterlin,” which meant “little star.” The coin was so named because it had a small star on one side.
Sterling’s Use as a Currency
The sterling coin was the main currency used in England for many centuries. It was also used in other countries, such as Ireland and Scotland, where it was known as the Scottish pound. In fact, the pound sterling is still the official currency of the United Kingdom today.
Sterling’s Use in Language
Over time, the word “sterling” began to be used more generally to refer to anything that was of high quality or value. For example, we might say that someone has “sterling qualities” or that a piece of jewelry is “sterling silver.”
The Emergence of Sterling as a Name
At some point in history, people started using “Sterling” as a name. It’s not entirely clear when this happened, but the first recorded use of the name was in the 16th century. It’s possible that people began using the name because they associated it with wealth and success.
The Popularity of Sterling as a Name
Sterling’s Rise in Popularity
Sterling was a relatively uncommon name until the early 20th century. However, it began to gain popularity in the 1920s and 1930s, and by the 1960s it had become a fairly popular name for boys.
The Impact of Popular Culture
One reason for Sterling’s popularity is likely the influence of popular culture. For example, the character of Roger Sterling in the TV series “Mad Men” is a successful and charismatic businessman, which may have contributed to the name’s appeal.
Sterling’s Gender Neutrality
Another reason for Sterling’s popularity is that it is a gender-neutral name. While it is more commonly used for boys, it can also be used for girls. This makes it a versatile and appealing choice for parents who want a name that is not tied to a specific gender.
Famous People Named Sterling
Sterling Holloway
One of the most famous people named Sterling is the actor Sterling Holloway. He was best known for his voice work in Disney films, including the role of Winnie the Pooh.
Sterling K. Brown
Another famous Sterling is the actor Sterling K. Brown. He has won multiple Emmy awards for his work on TV shows like “This Is Us” and “The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story.”
Sterling Shepard
Sterling Shepard is a professional football player who currently plays for the New York Giants. He was named after his father, who was also a football player.
Conclusion
The story of Sterling is a fascinating one, and it highlights the unique and unpredictable ways that language can evolve. From a silver coin to a name for boys and girls, Sterling has had a long and varied history. Whether you’re a fan of the name or not, there’s no denying that it has a certain charm and appeal.
