as in justified
being what is called for by accepted standards of right and wrong
a well deserved promotion for a hard worker
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Recent Examples of deserved
Jared Gans, The Hill, 29 Jan. 2026
As BoCo legacies go, a permanent tribute to Barry isn’t just deserved.
—Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 24 Jan. 2026
Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Feb. 2026
Several Democrats argued that the idea at least deserved a full bill hearing, rather than being tacked on as an amendment to a bill on a different subject.
—Christine Condon, Baltimore Sun, 7 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for deserved
Adjective
Winners who submit correct answers will receive deserved newsletter fame on Friday.
—Jared Gans, The Hill, 29 Jan. 2026
As BoCo legacies go, a permanent tribute to Barry isn’t just deserved.
—Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 24 Jan. 2026
Verb
If Carroll deserved substantial credit for helping Schneider to assemble two Super Bowl rosters, Schneider put his full stamp on the current roster.
—Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Feb. 2026
Several Democrats argued that the idea at least deserved a full bill hearing, rather than being tacked on as an amendment to a bill on a different subject.
—Christine Condon, Baltimore Sun, 7 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for deserved
Recent Examples of Synonyms for deserved
Adjective
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Sweet Venus enters your thoughtful sign, empowering you with justified confidence in your powers of attraction.—
Tarot.com,
Hartford Courant,
10 Feb. 2026
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The Justice Department did not respond to a request for comment, but officials there have broadly defended the department’s actions as not only justified but necessary for ensuring the rule of law and holding alleged criminals to account.—
Kevin Rector,
Los Angeles Times,
31 Jan. 2026
Verb
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This resort stands on the edge of Aruba, specifically on Eagle Beach, where the crystal-clear water and white sands have earned it the reputation of being one of the best beaches in the world.—
José Cantillo Ferrer,
Condé Nast Traveler,
15 Feb. 2026
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City Manager Bryan Whitemyer announced the appointment this week, saying Solak earned the confidence of city staff and residents during his time leading the department.—
Nicole Buss,
Sacbee.com,
14 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Deserved.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/deserved. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.
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