First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1merit
noun mer·it \ˈmer-ət, ˈme-rət\
: a good quality or feature that deserves to be praised
: the quality of being good, important, or useful : value or worth
Full Definition of MERIT
1
a obsolete : reward or punishment due b : the qualities or actions that constitute the basis of one's deserts c : a praiseworthy quality : virtue d : character or conduct deserving reward, honor, or esteem; also : achievement
2
: spiritual credit held to be earned by performance of righteous acts and to ensure future benefits
3
a plural : the substance of a legal case apart from matters of jurisdiction, procedure, or form b : individual significance or justification
— mer·it·less \-ləs\ adjective
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Origin of MERIT
Middle English, from Anglo-French merite, from Latin meritum, from neuter of meritus, past participle of merēre to deserve, earn; akin to Greek meiresthai to receive as one's portion, meros part
Related to MERIT
- Synonyms
- cardinal virtue, distinction, excellency, grace, excellence, value, virtue
- Antonyms
- deficiency, demerit, disvalue
2merit
verb
: to deserve (something, such as attention or good treatment) by being important or good
Full Definition of MERIT
transitive verb
: to be worthy of or entitled or liable to : earn
intransitive verb
1
obsolete : to be entitled to reward or honor
2
: deserve
See merit defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of MERIT
1526
MERITED Defined for Kids
1merit
noun mer·it \ˈmer-ət\
Definition of MERIT for Kids
1
: the condition or fact of deserving reward or punishment <Students are graded according to merit.>
3
: a quality worthy of praise : virtue <the merit of honesty>
2merit
verb
mer·it·edmer·it·ing
Definition of MERIT for Kids
: to be worthy of or have a right to <Both ideas merit further consideration.>
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