The quality of being excellent; state of possessing good qualities in an eminent degree; exalted merit; superiority in virtue. Consider first that great Or bright infers not excellence. Milton.
An excellent or valuable quality; that by which any one excels or is eminent; a virtue. With every excellence refined. Beattie.
A title of honor or respect; -- more common in the form excellency. I do greet your excellence With letters of commission from the king. Shak.
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