excellent

adjective

ex·​cel·​lent ˈek-s(ə-)lənt How to pronounce excellent (audio)
Synonyms of excellent
1
: very good of its kind : eminently good : first-class
2
archaic : superior
excellently adverb

Synonyms of excellent

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Examples of excellent in a Sentence

Her new movie has received excellent reviews. He is an excellent role model for young men everywhere. The car is in excellent condition.
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.
Her shoes are already a favorite among industry insiders for their sleek appeal and excellent construction. — Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 13 Oct. 2026 In late September, the concept was thrust back into the public consciousness thanks to a Variety interview with actor Jack Innanen, who plays the Canadian himbo Paul Baker on the excellent sitcom Adults. — Chris Murphy, Vanity Fair, 12 Oct. 2026 Jalsa has excellent food, leisurely service, and a robot waiter of unclear utility. — Molly Fischer, New Yorker, 12 Oct. 2026 What to read next Observing conditions at the peak should be excellent. — Jamie Carter, Space.com, 12 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for excellent

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin excellent-, excellens, from present participle of excellere

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

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

Phrases Containing excellent

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excellency
excellent
excellently
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Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

excellent

adjective
ex·​cel·​lent ˈek-s(ə-)lənt How to pronounce excellent (audio)
: very good of its kind : first-class
excellently adverb
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