deserving

[ dih-zur-ving ]

adjective

1. qualified for or having a claim to reward, assistance, etc., because of one's actions, qualities, or situation:

   the deserving poor;

   a deserving applicant.

2. meriting; worthy:

   a criminal deserving of a lifetime sentence.

deserving

/ dɪˈzɜːvɪŋ /

adjective

1. oftenpostpositive and foll by of worthy, esp of praise or reward

noun

1. rare.
   a merit or demerit; desert

Derived Forms

• deˈservingly, adverb
• deˈservingness, noun

Other Words From

• de·serving·ly adverb
• de·serving·ness noun
• self-de·serving adjective
• unde·serving adjective
• unde·serving·ly adverb
• unde·serving·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of deserving¹

First recorded in 1570–80; deserve + -ing ²

Example Sentences

The super-fight was deserving of topping the bill, yet the striking dome-shaped stadium was almost full when the boxers made their ring walks.

From BBC

“These are three very deserving toys that showcase the wide range of how people play,” said Christopher Bensch, Vice President for Collections and Chief Curator of the museum.

From Salon

"He is very deserving of this exquisite monument. The greatest president I've ever had. You will be missed by Ghanaians," one person posted, adding that Akufo-Addo was the "founder of Ghana's free education system".

From BBC

He's not going to see you as a person deserving full rights.

From Salon

Those who die from illegal abortions are viewed as rejecting patriarchal authority and deserving of that death.

From Salon

Related Words

• commendable