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excelsior

noun
ex·​cel·​si·​or | \ ik-ˈsel-sē-ər How to pronounce excelsior (audio) , -ȯr\

Definition of excelsior

 (Entry 1 of 2)

: fine curled wood shavings used especially for packing fragile items

excelsior

Latin adverb
ex·​cel·​si·​or | \ ik-ˈsel-sē-ər How to pronounce excelsior (audio) , eks-ˈkel-sē-ˌȯr\

Definition of excelsior (Entry 2 of 2)

: higher —motto of New York

First Known Use of excelsior

Noun

1868, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for excelsior

Noun

trade name, from Latin, higher, comparative of excelsus high, from past participle of excellere

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The first known use of excelsior was in 1868

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