Deserving

/dɪˈzɜːrvɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
worthy of being treated in a particular way; meriting reward or punishment.
She is a deserving candidate for the scholarship due to her consistent hard work.
having qualities or characteristics worthy of respect or consideration.
The charity supports deserving families in need of assistance.
entitled to something, typically as a result of one’s actions.
He is deserving of recognition for his volunteer efforts in the community.

Etymology

Middle English deserven, from Old French deservir, from Latin deservire.

Common Phrases and Expressions

everybody deserves a chance
Indicates that every person has the right to an opportunity.
deserving of love
Worthy of receiving love and affection.
deserving praise
Worthy of acknowledgment or admiration.

Related Words

merit
The quality of being particularly good or worthy.
worthy
Having or showing the qualities or abilities that deserve respect.
entitlement
The fact of having a right to something.

Slang Meanings

Deserve it.
If you work hard, you’ll deserve it in the end.
They’ve earned it.
After all that effort, they’ve definitely earned it.