deserved 1 of 2

Definition of deservednext

deserved

2 of 2

verb

past tense of deserve
as in earned
to be or make worthy of (as a reward or punishment) the team really deserved that victory after the way they played

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of deserved
Adjective
Reed faced deserved backlash for cruel personal attacks, including fat-shaming comments about actress Melissa McCarthy, reflecting his intolerance for unconventional or avant-garde work. Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 12 May 2026 But the bigger purpose of this residency is to celebrate not just an album but a career that survived romantic breakups, solo stardom for Stefani, tentative reunions and now a deserved victory lap. Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 7 May 2026
Verb
The name recognition isn’t there yet for DR Congo, but the African team deserved its 1-1 draw against Portugal. Dan Santaromita, New York Times, 23 June 2026 Every victim told the military judge that Radford deserved the maximum sentence. Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for deserved
Recent Examples of Synonyms for deserved
Adjective
  • If that underlying logic is stripped away, policymakers may feel justified in reversing these successful, health-promoting policies.
    Rachel E. Fabi, STAT, 23 June 2026
  • These are entirely justified responses to Russian strikes against our state.
    Ron Popeski, USA Today, 20 June 2026
Verb
  • His performance earned him hearty pats on the back from Counsell when he was pulled in the sixth and loud cheers from the strong Cubs contingent among the 40,193 fans at American Family Field.
    Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 28 June 2026
  • Adorni insisted the money was earned legitimately including through cryptocurrency investments.
    Clara Preve, Los Angeles Times, 28 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Deserved.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/deserved. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.

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