emulation (emulashon)

[F. émulation = Pr. emulacio Sp. emulacion = Pg. emulação = It. emulazione, Among the lower animals we see many symptoms of emulation, but in them its effects are perfectly insignificant when compared with those which it produces in human conduct. In our own race emulation operates in an infinite variety of directions, and is one of the principal sources of human improvement. D. Stewart , Moral Powers, I. ii. § 5. Let the man who thinks he is actuated by generous emulation only, and wishes to know whether there be anything of envy in the case, examine his own heart. Beattie, Moral Science, I. ii. § 5. 2. Effort to equal or excel in qualities or actions; imitative rivalry, as of that which one admires in another or others: as, the emulation of great actions, or of the rich by the poor. Then younger brothers may eate gra e, yf they cannot achieue to excell; which will bring a ble ed emulacion to England. Booke of Precedence (E. E. T. S., extra ser.), i. 11. 1907