any passerine bird belonging to sturnus and allied genera. the european starling (sturnus vulgaris) is dark brown or greenish black, with a metallic gloss, and spotted with yellowish white. it is a sociable bird, and builds about houses, old towers, etc. called also stare, and starred. the pied starling of india is sternopastor contra.-a california fish; the rock trout.-a structure of piles driven round the piers of a bridge for protection and support; -- called also sterling.