deserves

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.

“She’s both grandmother and co-parent to my children. To be able to give her the space that she deserves was important. She had her own entrance, her own living room and kitchenette area.”

From MarketWatch • Jun. 30, 2026

“Every Angeleno deserves to feel safe walking their dogs, returning home from work, and parking their cars at night, and the City is committed to delivering the reliable street lighting that makes that a reality.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 26, 2026

And I don't doubt people will be, but some will say he deserves a second chance.

From BBC • Jun. 26, 2026

“We believe Micron deserves to be further rerated,” John Vinh said in a note.

From Barron's • Jun. 25, 2026

Tell Mama you love her every day, because she deserves to have someone say it, and since I'm not there, you have to take over for me.

From Anya and the Dragon by Sofiya Pasternack