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
Winners who submit correct answers will receive deserved newsletter fame on Friday. Jared Gans, The Hill, 12 Mar. 2026 Because of them, this guy will serve a much deserved and lengthy sentence in state prison. Logan Smith, CBS News, 1 Mar. 2026
Verb
Bill Gates acknowledged as much while he and Jobs were locked in a legal fight over who deserved credit for the Windows and Macintosh displays. Business Columnist, Los Angeles Times, 24 Mar. 2026 Now, in 2026 after going 24-8 during the season, Legette-Jack felt her team deserved a shot elsewhere. Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 24 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for deserved
Recent Examples of Synonyms for deserved
Adjective
  • This Iran war was neither justified nor necessary.
    Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 21 Mar. 2026
  • The Ivorian’s fall was less pronounced than Cunha’s but no less justified, but no foul was given.
    Carl Anka, New York Times, 21 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The original Broadway production earned three Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and has delighted global audiences with its irreverent humor, according to a news release.
    News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Mar. 2026
  • That ménage à trois has earned them further entry into an even more elite world, which appeals to both of their desires to move up the social ladder.
    David Fear, Rolling Stone, 28 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

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

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