excellence

noun

ex·​cel·​lence ˈek-s(ə-)lən(t)s How to pronounce excellence (audio)
Synonyms of excellence
1
: the quality of being excellent
an award for academic excellence
setting a high standard of excellence
see also black excellence
2
plural excellences : an excellent or valuable quality : virtue
… I am as admiring as almost everyone else of the film's many excellences …—Daniel Mendelsohn
3
or Excellence : excellency sense 2
Lord Regent, I do greet your Excellence …—William Shakespeare

Synonyms of excellence

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Examples of excellence in a Sentence

The school is known for the excellence of its teachers. an award for academic excellence setting a high standard of excellence
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Harold Matzner Distinguished Achievement Award aims to recognize individuals whose careers have profoundly influenced the global film industry through artistic excellence, visionary leadership and philanthropic impact. — Isabelle Farina, Variety, 8 Oct. 2026 Inspired by the Spanish luxury house’s own beginnings as an artisanal workshop, the award intends to recognize excellence and innovation in craft in all its forms. — Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 2026 The industry awards, now in their 16th year, celebrate excellence, innovation, and craftsmanship across the global superyacht and private aviation sectors. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 7 Oct. 2026 If they are not hired in adequate numbers, the university’s reputation for academic excellence could be at stake. — Tarini Mehta, Sacbee.com, 6 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for excellence

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of excellence was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing excellence

Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Excellence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/excellence. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

excellence

noun
ex·​cel·​lence ˈek-s(ə-)lən(t)s How to pronounce excellence (audio)
1
: high quality
2
: an excellent quality : virtue
3
: excellency sense 2
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