Excelsior: meaning, definitions and examples
๐๏ธ
excelsior
[ ษkหsษlsiษr ]
inspiration, motto
Excelsior is a Latin word meaning 'ever upward.' It is often used as a motto or expression of determination, encouraging individuals to strive for greatness and to overcome obstacles. The term has been adopted in various contexts, notably by the state of New York and in literature, symbolizing the pursuit of higher goals and ideals. The word can evoke feelings of hope and resilience.
Synonyms
aspirational, beyond, higher, upward
Examples of usage
- The motto of our school is excelsior, inspiring us to reach new heights.
- He approached every challenge with the spirit of excelsior, refusing to give up.
- As we face adversity, we must remember to remain excelsior in our pursuits.
Translations
Translations of the word "excelsior" in other languages:
๐ต๐น excelente
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคคเฅเคเฅเคทเฅเค
๐ฉ๐ช ausgezeichnet
๐ฎ๐ฉ cemerlang
๐บ๐ฆ ััะดะพะฒะธะน
๐ต๐ฑ doskonaลy
๐ฏ๐ต ๅชใใ
๐ซ๐ท excellent
๐ช๐ธ excelente
๐น๐ท mรผkemmel
๐ฐ๐ท ์ฐ์ํ
๐ธ๐ฆ ู ู ุชุงุฒ
๐จ๐ฟ vynikajรญcรญ
๐ธ๐ฐ vynikajรบci
๐จ๐ณ ๅ่ถ็
๐ธ๐ฎ izjemen
๐ฎ๐ธ frรกbรฆr
๐ฐ๐ฟ ัะฐะผะฐัะฐ
๐ฌ๐ช แจแแกแแแแจแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ mรถhtษลษm
๐ฒ๐ฝ excelente
Word origin
The term 'excelsior' originates from the Latin word 'excelsus,' which means 'high' or 'tall.' It has been part of the English language since the early 17th century, primarily used in literary and poetic contexts. Excelsior gained wider recognition in the 19th century, especially after it was adopted as the state motto of New York in 1778. It embodies a spirit of continuous improvement and aspiration, resonating with the values of ambition and perseverance. Notably, it was used by figures such as journalist and poet Walt Whitman, who emphasized the importance of striving for excellence in all facets of life. Its enduring presence in popular culture reflects a collective yearning for progress and achievement.