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Definition of excel

excel

/ɪkˈsɛl/
ex · cel
Adverb:excellently
•
Adjective:excellent
•
Past Simple:excelled
•
Past Participle:excelled
•
Present Participle:excelling
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excel Lexical Profile

excel Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To be exceptionally good at or proficient in an activity, subject, or field of endeavor.

Example

"She has always excelled in mathematics and analytical problem-solving."

2

To surpass or be superior to others in quality, degree, or achievement.

Example

"In terms of craftsmanship and durability, these handmade instruments excel all their competitors."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for excel

• Nearby Words

excavator
exceed
exceedingly
excel
excellence
excellency
excellent

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 15th century from Latin excellere ('to rise, surpass, be eminent'), formed from ex- ('out, beyond') and -cellere ('to rise high, tower'), from a Proto-Indo-European root shared with 'colossus' and 'hill'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Excel. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/excel
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