Meaning & Definition of word "Deserving"

Deserving

/dɪˈzɜːrvɪŋ/

adjective:

  • 1. worthy of being treated in a particular way; meriting reward or punishment.
    • Example: She is a deserving candidate for the scholarship due to her consistent hard work.
  • 2. having qualities or characteristics worthy of respect or consideration.
    • Example: The charity supports deserving families in need of assistance.
  • 3. entitled to something, typically as a result of one’s actions.
    • Example: 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 of deserving

Meaning: Deserve it.

Example Sentence: If you work hard, you’ll deserve it in the end.

Meaning: They’ve earned it.

Example Sentence: After all that effort, they’ve definitely earned it.