The compound 'star-studded' is a modern metaphorical creation, blending two distinct Old English roots. The first element, 'star', draws on its ancient meaning of a bright celestial object, a metaphor for fame and prominence since the early 19th century. The second element, 'studded', originates from the concept of a sturdy post or a decorative nail, used to describe surfaces densely set with ornaments. The compound's logic is vividly pictorial: it likens a gathering of celebrities to a dark sky densely decorated with bright stars or a surface glittering with many studs, effectively conveying an image of being densely packed with famous and glamorous people.

Structure: star (celestial body/celebrity) + studded (decorated with studs) - star: From Old English 'steorra', meaning a celestial body. In modern usage, it also metaphorically means a famous performer. - studded: From Old English 'studu' (post, pillar), evolving to mean a short, decorative nail or knob. The past participle 'studded' means adorned or scattered with such objects.