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