Meaning & Definition of Deserve in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: to be worthy of something due to one's actions or qualities.

  Example Sentence: After all her hard work, she deserves a vacation.

• Definition: to have a right to something based on merit.

  Example Sentence: He deserves this recognition for his contributions.

• Definition: to be entitled to a reward or punishment.

  Example Sentence: They deserve to be punished for their mistakes.

Etymology

Origin: Middle English: from Old French 'deservir', from Latin 'deservire', meaning 'to serve well'.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• You deserve it: used to express that someone has earned something good.
• Deserve a break: to have earned time off or a rest due to hard work.
• Deserve better: to be worthy of improvement in circumstances or treatment.

Translations

• Spanish: merecer

• French: mériter

• German: verdienen

• Russian: заслужить

Related Words

• undeserved: not deserved; given without merit.

• deserving: worthy of attention, regard, or reward.

• deservingly: in a manner that one deserves.

Slang Meanings of deserve

• Meaning: You earned it!

  Example Sentence: After you aced that exam, you can say 'I deserve it!'

• Meaning: Totally legit!

  Example Sentence: If someone compliments your outfit, just say 'I deserve that!'