Definitions

deserve

[dih-zurv] / dɪˈzɜrv /

VERB

be entitled to

Synonyms

STRONGEST

earn gain get justify merit warrant win

STRONG

demand procure rate

WEAK

be given one's due be in line for be worthy of get comeuppance get what is coming to one have it coming have the right to lay claim to

Antonyms

STRONGEST

fail forfeit lose miss pass spend

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Both companies deserve better valuations than Honeywell currently gets.

From Barron's • Jun. 11, 2026

He also said he hoped "the survivors of Epstein's crimes can get the justice that they deserve".

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

Perhaps Mr. Pelley and his long career deserve more respect.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

“The least the national team and the upcoming tournament deserve is for us to be 100% focused on that.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 7, 2026

The Scholl children asked the teacher’s mother what he had done to deserve such treatment.

From "Hitler Youth: Growing Up in Hitler's Shadow" by Susan Campbell Bartoletti

Vocabulary lists containing deserve

"Macbeth" Vocabulary from Act I

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Schooled

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History is made in PA: Clinton's DNC Acceptance Speech

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