excelsior

¹ American  

[ik-sel-see-er, ek-] / ɪkˈsɛl si ər, ɛk- /

noun

1. fine wood shavings, used for stuffing, packing, etc.

2. Printing. a 3-point type: a size smaller than brilliant.

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excelsior ² American  

[ek-sel-si-ohr, ik-sel-see-awr, ek-] / ɛkˈsɛl sɪˌoʊr, ɪkˈsɛl siˌɔr, ɛk- /

adjective

Latin.

1. ever upward: motto of New York State.

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excelsior British  

/ ɪkˈsɛlsɪˌɔː /

interjection

1. excellent: used as a motto and as a trademark for various products, esp in the US for fine wood shavings used for packing breakable objects

2. upwards

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Usage

What else does excelsior mean? Excelsior is a Latin word translated into English as a motto meaning "Ever upward!"Marvel comics legend Stan Lee, who helped create such iconic characters as Spider-Man and the Hulk, famously used Excelsior! as his catchphrase.

Etymology

Origin of excelsior

An Americanism dating back to 1770–80; formerly a trademark

Example Sentences

As well as working in his homeland with NEC Nijmegen, Excelsior Rotterdam and NAC Breda, the Dutchman had a year at Brentford before his longer spells with Manchester City and Burnley.

From BBC • Nov. 13, 2024

A spokesperson for Excelsior Charter Schools could not be reached for comment.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 25, 2024

On the banks of Lake Minnewashta in Excelsior, just outside Minneapolis, the answer lies in a dimly lit, wood-burning barrel-shaped sauna a few feet away.

From New York Times • Feb. 17, 2024

The World Cup winner has bought Royal Excelsior Virton, a third-division team in Belgium.

From Washington Times • Jun. 29, 2023

Tim made me lose the science fair and the Excelsior Award!

From "Shine!" by J.J. and Chris Grabenstein