Definition of earn
transitive verb
1 a : to receive as return for effort and especially for work done or services rendered b : to bring in by way of return <bonds earning 10 percent interest>
2 a : to come to be duly worthy of or entitled or suited to <she earned a promotion> b : to make worthy of or obtain for <the suggestion earned him a promotion>
earner
nounOrigin and Etymology of earn
Middle English ernen, from Old English earnian; akin to Old High German arnōn to reap, Czech jeseň autumn
First Known Use: before 12th century
Other Economics Terms
Origin and Etymology of earn
probably alteration of yearn
First Known Use: 1599
EARN Defined for Kids
earn
playDefinition of earn for Students
earned
earning
1 : to get for work done <She earns her pay.>
2 : to deserve as a result of labor or service <He earned good grades.>
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