What is excelsior commonly referred to as?

Excelsior is commonly referred to as wood wool. This term specifically denotes the fine, shredded wood fibers that are produced from wood, typically birch or aspen. The process of creating excelsior involves shredding or processing wood into thin strands, which results in a product that is lightweight, flexible, and has a texture that resembles wool.

Excelsior is often used in packaging, as it provides cushioning and protection for fragile items, and in crafting or decorative applications due to its aesthetic qualities. The term "wood wool" aptly describes its structure and composition, making it the most accurate designation among the choices provided.

The other options, such as wood shavings or chips, refer to different forms of wood products that do not imply the same characteristics as excelsior. Wood shavings are larger pieces that often result from woodworking activities, while chips are usually more substantial in size and have specific applications like mulch or fuel. Spaghetti wood is not a widely recognized term and does not accurately convey the nature of excelsior. Thus, "wood wool" is the most appropriate description.