1
as in distinction
a quality that gives something special worth
this mystery novel at least has the merit of an original plot
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in value
the relative usefulness or importance of something as judged by specific qualities
that idea has some merit, so let's explore it
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
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Recent Examples of merit
Peter Charalambous, ABC News, 2 May 2026
Both were calm, respectful and attentive during the nearly two-hour hearing, which hashed out the merits of their competing temporary protective orders.
—Marlene Lenthang, NBC news, 1 May 2026
Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 May 2026
While the char siu and pork belly draw plenty of attention — as well as regular lines out the door — her panang curry merits equal regard.
—Carolyn Burt, Oc Register, 1 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for merit
Noun
In addition to asking for a stay of the lower court’s ruling, Danco Laboratories urged the justices to take the case up on the merits.
—Peter Charalambous, ABC News, 2 May 2026
Both were calm, respectful and attentive during the nearly two-hour hearing, which hashed out the merits of their competing temporary protective orders.
—Marlene Lenthang, NBC news, 1 May 2026
Verb
DeSantis is arguing that Florida’s significant growth over the past few years merits a redraw of the state’s congressional boundaries.
—Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 May 2026
While the char siu and pork belly draw plenty of attention — as well as regular lines out the door — her panang curry merits equal regard.
—Carolyn Burt, Oc Register, 1 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for merit
Recent Examples of Synonyms for merit
Noun
-
Its kingless government, once a badge of distinction, had become normal in the mid-nineteenth-century Americas.—
Daniel Immerwahr,
New Yorker,
4 May 2026
-
That distinction is becoming more relevant as investors look to reduce counterparty risk and diversify away from purely digital or paper-based holdings.—
Ascend Agency,
New York Daily News,
4 May 2026
Noun
-
Belcher thinks that the 2026 midterm elections will be won not just on pocketbook issues but on values and character, and by bringing people together in a multiracial coalition.—
Peter Slevin,
New Yorker,
4 May 2026
-
As the league experienced a growth spurt over the last few years, the value of franchises skyrocketed and the league’s appeal for TV rights dollars rose.—
Dom Amore,
Hartford Courant,
3 May 2026
Verb
-
The American people deserve a Congress that fights for them, regardless of who holds the gavel.—
Lucas Robinson,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
8 May 2026
-
With Tarrant County prices shifting and downtown high-rises competing with suburban subdivisions, the trade-offs deserve a closer look before anyone signs a contract.—
Lauren Jarvis-Gibson,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
7 May 2026
Noun
-
The 76ers led by as many as 15 in the quarter and carried a 32-19 advantage into the second quarter.—
Kyle Hightower,
Chicago Tribune,
3 May 2026
-
American Heritage-Delray jumped out to a 7-0 lead at the end of the first, had a 12-0 advantage at halftime and a 17-0 lead entering the fourth.—
Alex Kushel,
Sun Sentinel,
3 May 2026
Noun
-
What is the importance of drawing this distinction, though?—
Isaac Chotiner,
New Yorker,
7 May 2026
-
Saka’s importance to this Arsenal side cannot be overstated.—
Abdul Rehman,
New York Times,
7 May 2026
Noun
-
In that competition, loyalty is an expensive virtue.—
Wael Mahdi,
semafor.com,
28 Apr. 2026
-
But patience can sometimes be a death knell in the playoffs, and Game 4 showed how a lack of it can be a virtue.—
Arpon Basu,
New York Times,
27 Apr. 2026
Noun
-
The Elegoo Jupiter 2 3D printer shows flashes of excellence with its massive build volume and striking print quality, but uneven automation, confusing UI menus, and a still-maturing workflow limit its appeal.—
Michael Lydick,
PC Magazine,
2 May 2026
-
This line is forged and finished by the same team behind his other lines, delivering a similar level of excellence.—
Jesse Raub,
Bon Appetit Magazine,
1 May 2026
Cite this Entry
“Merit.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/merit. Accessed 8 May. 2026.
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