Sterling

“Of high quality or excellent” — Associated with silver standards (sterling silver)

American origin · Unisex name

♂ 92% boys♀ 8% girls

#403US 2023

792Births / yr

→Stable

35.9kAll-time births

📅 Since 191300.01% of births at peak

How to pronounce Sterling

STER·ling

/ˈstɝ.lɪŋ/ · stress on STER · 2 syllables

“Of high quality or excellent”

Associated with silver standards (sterling silver) · American origin

What does Sterling mean and where does it come from?

Sterling is an English name traditionally associated with silver standards (sterling silver). It has been used as a first name more recently, particularly in the United States, where it has emerged as a trendy choice for girls. The name embodies concepts of excellence and purity, making it appealing

Cultural significance

Sterling has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of of high quality or excellent.

Peak popularity

Reached #1633 in 2016 — currently #403 in the US.

🌿

How else can you spell Sterling?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

Stirling

Spelling variant

What middle names flow best with Sterling?

Sterling works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Sterling Grace

How popular is Sterling right now?

Holding steady — currently #403 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1920–2023#403 · Top 0.30%

1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#403	792	▼ down 5 · -1% births
2022	#398	802	▼ down 16 · -5% births
2021	#382	844	▲ up 1293 · +598% births
2020	#1675	121	▲ up 552 · +44% births
2015	#2227	84	▲ up 932 · +62% births
2010	#3159	52	▲ up 574 · +33% births
2005	#3733	39	▼ down 1558 · -47% births
2000	#2175	73	▲ up 249 · +38% births
1995	#2424	53	▲ up 378 · +29% births
1990	#2802	41	▲ up 1188 · +105% births
1985	#3990	20	▲ up 538 · +25% births
1980	#4528	16	▲ up 2671 · +129% births
1975	#7199	7	▼ down 3147 · -50% births
1970	#4052	14	▲ up 1261 · +100% births
1965	#5313	7	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Sterling

Best Year2021Rank #382

Peak Count844

Average Rank#3124

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1920 - 202318 years

The story of Sterling

Sterling entered American naming records in 1913 and has been in use for over 111 years. A total of 35,920 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3987 in 1920 to #403 in 2023. Sterling is used for both genders: 8% female and 92% male.

Names that peaked alongside Sterling in 2016:

Emma Olivia Ava Sophia Isabella

Sterling by decade

Sterling peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	168
1890s	233
1900s	352
1910s	1,622
1920s	2,580
1930s	1,930
1940s	2,383
1950s	2,596
1960s	2,544
1970s	2,184
1980s	3,222
1990s	5,279
2000s	3,575
2010s ★	6,377
2020s	875

What are good nicknames for Sterling?

Common

SteStieStyErling

What names sound and feel like Sterling?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Sterling also consider these

Starling

American · English

Sterlin

American · Of the highest

Sterline

American · English

Stirling

Scotland · From the stream,

Stefin

American · Crown or garland;

Erling

Norway · Old Norse

Tenzing

Tibet · The name means

Starlin

American · English

How is Sterling written in other languages?

Stirling

ENGLISH

Common questions about the name Sterling

What does the name Sterling mean?

Sterling means "Of high quality or excellent" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.

How popular is the name Sterling?

Sterling is currently ranked #403 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.

What is the cultural origin of Sterling?

Sterling originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

How do you pronounce the name Sterling?

Sterling is a two-syllable name pronounced S T ER1 L IH0 NG. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Sterling more of a girl or boy name?

Sterling is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.