sterlet

American  

[stur-lit] / ˈstɜr lɪt /

noun

1. a small sturgeon, Acipenser ruthenus, of the Black and Caspian seas, valued as a source of caviar.

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sterlet British  

/ ˈstɜːlɪt /

noun

1. a small sturgeon, Acipenser ruthenus, of seas and rivers in N Asia and E Europe: used as a food fish and a source of caviar

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Etymology

Origin of sterlet

1585–95; < Russian stérlyad', Old Russian sterlyagi (plural) < German Störling a small sturgeon, equivalent to Stör sturgeon ( Middle High German stör ( e ), stür ( e ), Old High German stur ( i ) o; cf. sturgeon) + -ling -ling ¹

Example Sentences

In Europe, there are four remaining sturgeon species, including Beluga, Russian, stellate, and sterlet, that are capable of producing caviar.

From Science Daily • Nov. 20, 2023

Their sterlet is even better than the Hermitage at Moscow.

From Hushed Up! A Mystery of London by Le Queux, William

We followed their proceedings with deep interest, being curious to learn the secret of the genuine "amber sterlet soup."

From Russian Rambles by Hapgood, Isabel Florence

There can be no doubt that the sturgeon or sterlet is meant by this term, for Platina calls the eggs of the fish “caviare.”

From Cookery and Dining in Imperial Rome by Vehling, Joseph Dommers

Fresh caviar is in perfection there, as also the sterlet or young sturgeon; the latter is caught in the Danube, and is a most dainty and much prized fish.

From The Gourmet's Guide to Europe by Newnham-Davis, Lieut.-Col. (Nathaniel)