1. To go beyond or surpass in good qualities or laudable deeds; to outdo or outgo, in a good sense. Excelling others, these were great; Thou, greater still, must these excel. Prior. I saw that wisdom excelleth folly, as far as light excelleth darkness. Eccl. ii. 13. 2. To exceed or go beyond; to surpass. She opened; but to shut Excelled her power; the gates wide ...