v.tr. (often foll. by to + infin.) show conduct or qualities worthy of (reward, punishment, etc.) (deserves to be imprisoned; deserves a prize). deserve well (or ill) of be worthy of good (or bad) treatment at the hands of (deserves well of the electorate). deservedly adv. deservedness n. deserver n.
[ ME f. OF deservir f. L deservire (as DE-, servire serve) ]