Need another word for Merit? Use these synonyms of Merit from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
worth
value
virtue
excellence
goodness
quality
desert
entitlement
credit
distinction
honor
prestige
dignity
rectitude
righteousness
morality
integrity
probity
decency
respectability
commendation
praise
acclaim
accolade
recognition
reward
deservingness
justification
legitimacy
validity
authenticity
credibility
trustworthiness
reliability
dependability
responsibility
accountability
praiseworthiness
Meaning of Merit
The primary meaning of the word "Merit" refers to the quality of being deserving of praise, reward, or recognition.
Definitions
- The quality of being deserving of praise, reward, or recognition
- * A quality or feature that makes something desirable or valuable
- * A good or admirable quality, especially one that deserves reward or recognition
Etymology of Merit
The word "Merit" originated from the Latin word "meritum", which is the neuter past participle of "merere", meaning "to deserve" or "to earn"
The term has been used in the English language since the 15th century, initially with a focus on moral or spiritual worth, and later expanding to include other contexts such as achievement, skill, or quality
Example Uses
- The student's hard work and dedication earned her a merit scholarship
- * The company's commitment to sustainability has earned it a reputation for merit and responsibility
- * The artist's use of color and light added merit to the overall composition of the painting
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
demerit
flaw
defect
shortcoming
weakness
inferiority
unworthiness
undesirability
disreputability
discredit
dishonor
shame
guilt
blame
culpability
liability
negligence
irresponsibility
inadequacy
ineptness
ineffectiveness
untrustworthiness