meritorious

/ˌmɛɹɪˈtoʊɹi.əs/

UK: /ˌmɛɹɪˈtɔːɹɪ.əs/

MƐɹꞮTOƱɹI · əs (2 syllables)

English Adj

Definition

Deserving of merit or commendation; deserving reward.

Etymology

From Middle English meritorious, borrowed between 1375 and 1425 from Latin meritōrius (“earning money”), from meritus, past participle of mereō (“to earn”).

Example Sentences

"The policeman received the Award of Meritorious Service from his grateful department."