Excellency

Excellency is an honorific style given to certain high-level officials of a sovereign state, officials of an international organization, or members of an aristocracy. Once entitled to the title "Excellency", the holder usually retains the right to that courtesy throughout their lifetime, although in some cases it is used only during the term of office. It is often used to address heads of state, heads of government, governors, ambassadors, certain ecclesiastical dignitaries, and others holding equivalent rank.

Origin and history

The term "Excellency" was used in the Middle Ages as a title of honour for men of great renown, such as knights and high-ranking churchmen. By the 18th century, it had been extended to include civil and military officials. Today, it is often used as a form of address for officials of a higher rank, such as ambassadors and governors.

Usage by country

The use of the term "Excellency" varies by country. In some countries, it is used to address the head of state, while in others it is used for a governor or a high-ranking military officer. In the United Kingdom, for example, the term is used to address ambassadors and high commissioners, as well as the Governor-General in Commonwealth realms. In the United States, it is used to address ambassadors and other high-ranking officials.

See also

• Styles and titles
• Honorific
• Ambassador
• Governor-General

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  Their Excellencies the Lords Justices of England, for the administration of the Government during the absence of the King by Robert White