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Synonyms

deserving

American  
[dih-zur-ving] / dɪˈzɜr vɪŋ /

adjective

  1. qualified for or having a claim to reward, assistance, etc., because of one's actions, qualities, or situation.

    the deserving poor;

    a deserving applicant.

  2. meriting; worthy.

    a criminal deserving of a lifetime sentence.


deserving British  
/ dɪˈzɜːvɪŋ /

adjective

  1. worthy, esp of praise or reward

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

noun

  1. rare a merit or demerit; desert

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of deserving

First recorded in 1570–80; deserve + -ing 2

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Norris was followed across the line by Verstappen and Antonelli, both of whom drove fine races themselves, the three podium finishers fully deserving their results.

From BBC Jul. 26, 2026

That still leaves five candidates deserving closer study.

From Science Daily Jul. 10, 2026

With his exit, they must realize there are others who are more deserving of attention and support.

From Salon Jul. 9, 2026

But deserving more attention is how he has enriched the country by building a remarkable company.

From The Wall Street Journal Jun. 12, 2026

Dadi offered him some of her Parle-G biscuits, which she only does to the most deserving visitors—and Oso.

From "From Twinkle, with Love" by Sandhya Menon

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