Stär'ling, n.

n. [Prov. Ger. starl, stärl. See STARE.]

1. (Ornith.) A small bird (the Sturnus vulgaris), common in Europe. It is of a rich metallic black color, spotted with yellowish white. It is a sociable bird, and builds about houses, old towers, &c. It is called also stare. The American starling is better known by the name of meadowlark. Peabody.
2. A structure of piles driven round the piers of a bridge for defense and support.