deserve

American  

[dih-zurv] / dɪˈzɜrv /

verb (used with object)

deserved, deserving

1. to merit, be qualified for, or have a claim to (reward, assistance, punishment, etc.) because of actions, qualities, or situation.

   to deserve exile; to deserve charity; a theory that deserves consideration.

   Synonyms:

   justify , warrant , rate

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verb (used without object)

deserved, deserving

1. to be worthy of, qualified for, or have a claim to reward, punishment, recompense, etc..

   to reward him as he deserves; an idea deserving of study.

deserve British  

/ dɪˈzɜːvɪdnɪs, dɪˈzɜːv /

verb

1. (tr) to be entitled to or worthy of; merit

2. obsolete  to be worthy

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deserve Idioms  

1. see one good turn deserves another.

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Other Word Forms

• deserved adjective
• deservedness noun
• deserver noun
• predeserve verb (used with object)

Etymology

Origin of deserve

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English deserven, from Anglo-French, Old French deservir, from Latin dēservīre “to devote oneself to the service of,” equivalent to dē- de- + servīre “to serve” ( serve )

Example Sentences

“You’re a failure. You never had any talent in the first place. You didn’t deserve it. This is proof.”

From Salon

Manchester United fought back to beat Crystal Palace on Sunday but they didn't really deserve it.

From BBC

“That has been my experience with this great artist and human being, who deserves to be in that place that only corresponds to her.”

From Los Angeles Times

They deserve to be where they are because they've been the standout side so far, and they are going to take some catching too.

From BBC

“I want all my guys to get whatever award they deserve,” Redick said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• earn
• gain
• get
• justify
• merit
• warrant
• win