noun

1. Obsolete a military sortie; raid
2. a short trip taken with the intention of returning to the point of departure; short journey, as for pleasure; jaunt
3. a round trip (on a train, bus, ship, etc.) at reduced rates, usually with limits set on the dates of departure and return
4. a group taking such a trip
5. a deviation or digression
6. Physics
   1. a single movement outward from the mean position in an oscillating or alternating motion
   2. the distance involved in such a movement
   3. a sudden, very rapid rise in the neutron flux and power of a nuclear reactor
7. Med. the extent of movement from a central position, as of the eyes from a midmost location or of the chest during respiration

Etymology: L excursio, a running out or forth < excursus, pp. of excurrere: see excurrent

adjective