— deserver , n.
/di zerrv"/ , v. , deserved, deserving .
v.t.
1. to merit, be qualified for, or have a claim to (reward, assistance, punishment, etc.) because of actions, qualities, or situation: to deserve exile; to deserve charity; a theory that deserves consideration.
v.i.
2. to be worthy of, qualified for, or have a claim to reward, punishment, recompense, etc.: to reward him as he deserves; an idea deserving of study.
[ 1250-1300; ME deserven deservir, L deservire to devote oneself to the service of, equiv. to de- DE- + servire to SERVE ]
Syn. 1. rate, warrant, justify.