Definition of "deserve" in English

verb

1. (transitive) To be entitled to, as a result of past actions; to be worthy to have.

   • After playing so well, the team really deserved their win.
   • After what he did, he deserved to go to prison.
   • We don't think your article deserves reading.

2. (obsolete) To earn, win.

3. (obsolete) To reward, to give in return for service.

4. (obsolete) To serve; to treat; to benefit.

   • c. 1619–22, Philip Massinger and John Fletcher, A Very Woman A man that hath / So well deserved me.