— excursional, excursionary , adj.
/ik skerr"zheuhn, -sheuhn/ , n.
1. a short trip or outing to some place, usually for a special purpose and with the intention of a prompt return: a pleasure excursion; a scientific excursion.
2. a trip on a train, ship, etc., at a reduced rate: weekend excursions to mountain resorts.
3. the group of persons making such a journey: an excursion of tourists.
4. a deviation or digression: excursions into futile philosophizing.
5. Physics. the displacement of a body or a point from a mean position or neutral value, as in an oscillation.
6. an accidental increase in the power level of a reactor, usually forcing its emergency shutdown.
7. Mach.
a. the range of stroke of any moving part.
b. the stroke itself.
8. Obs. a sally or raid.
v.i.
9. to go on or take an excursion.
adj.
10. of, pertaining to, or intended for use on excursions: an excursion fare; an excursion bus.
[ 1565-75; excursion- (s. of excursio ). See EXCURSUS, -ION ]