Excel
/ɪkˈsɛl/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo be exceptionally good at or to do very well in something.
/ɪkˈsɛl/
To be exceptionally good at or superior in a skill or quality.
She excels in her studies, consistently earning top grades.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're really, really good at something like drawing, singing, or playing a game. To excel is like saying you're the best at it! For example, if you're great at soccer, you excel at it.
👶 For kids: Being really, really good at something!
More Examples
The company excels at providing excellent customer service.
He excels in playing the piano, captivating audiences with his performances.
How It's Used
"She excels in mathematics."
"He excels in sales."
A person or thing that surpasses all others; a person or thing of exceptional quality.
/ɪkˈsɛl/
A person or thing that excels; a person or thing of the highest excellence.
She is considered an excel in her field, recognized for her innovative work.
💡 Simply: An 'excel' is like the champion. If something is an excel, it's the best of the best! If you read a book and think, "Wow, that's an excel!" it means it's the best book you've read.
👶 For kids: The very best of something!
More Examples
The athlete was acknowledged as an excel, setting new records.
The art piece was regarded as an excel, admired for its artistic brilliance.
How It's Used
"The novel was considered an excel in the genre."
Idioms & expressions
excel at something
To be very good at a particular activity or skill.
"She excels at public speaking."
From Latin *excellere* 'to rise above, surpass', from *ex-* 'out' + *cellere* 'to raise, lift'.
The word 'excel' has been used since the 15th century and originally referred to surpassing others in quality or ability.
Memory tip
Think of "X-cell-ence" where the X marks the spot of exceptional ability.