deserved 1 of 2

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
In addition to the (deserved) hype around Luka's homecoming, there's plenty of on-court intrigue. Raja Krishnamoorthi, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Apr. 2025 The Sportatorium, the West Broward concert hall of deserved ill repute and a South Florida landmark of sorts, will close next month. Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 3 Apr. 2025
Verb
The Canucks deserved to be down by a goal or two, but Kevin Lankinen’s sharp play kept the score tied in the first period. Harman Dayal, The Athletic, 21 Mar. 2025 Some lieutenant governors deserved their pay as agency heads or as effective advisers to governors, notably under Govs. Orlando Sentinel and South Florida Sun Sentinel Editorial Boards, Orlando Sentinel, 21 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for deserved
Recent Examples of Synonyms for deserved
Adjective
  • The protean hatred of Jews is always justified, and never justifiable.
    Rabbi David Wolpe, Time, 23 May 2025
  • Your personal life doesn't need to be defended, justified, or sacrificed because someone else's priorities weren't planned for.
    Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 May 2025
Verb
  • Hamlin earned a scholarship this season and Campbell said this was one of the most pivotal moments of his career.
    Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Mar. 2025
  • Nate Schmidt took on Domi in defense of his teammate, and the pair earned fighting majors.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 14 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Deserved.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/deserved. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

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