deserve

 
Pronunciation: /dɪˈzəːv/

verb

[with object]
  • do something or have or show qualities worthy of (a reaction which rewards or punishes as appropriate): the referee deserves a pat on the back [with infinitive]: we didn’t deserve to win

Phrases

deserve a medal

have done something considered especially praiseworthy or heroic: as a psychiatric nurse he deserves a medal, anyway

deserve well (or ill) of

be worthy of good (or bad) treatment at the hands of.

Origin:

Middle English: from Old French deservir, from Latin deservire 'serve well or zealously'