As a count noun. Usually in plural. A great thing, as an act, a quality, position, etc.

That in which a person or thing excels; an excellent feature or quality.

A commendable quality, an excellence, a good point. Now frequently in to have the merit that (also of,etc.).

That in which a person (or thing) excels or is remarkable; esp. in good sense, an excellence, special talent, honourable distinction. Obsolete.

An eminent quality, an excellence; a distinction, honour. Obsolete.

That in which a person or thing excels; an excellent feature or quality; a chief accomplishment, a specialty: = excellence, n. 2.

A transcendent person or thing; in quot. 1654, an eminent quality.

A transcendent or pre-eminent quality. Obsolete.