Earn Definition & Meaning | Britannica Dictionary (original) (raw)

1

:

to get (money, a salary, etc.) for work that you have done

• She earns a good salary.
• I need to earn some money.
• He will do anything to earn his keep. [=to earn what is needed to support himself]
• She's just trying to earn a living. [=to earn the money needed for food, clothing, etc.]

2

a

:

to deserve or get (something) because of something you have done

• He earned a promotion through hard work.
• The team has earned [=_gained_] a reputation for poor sportsmanship.
• She needs to earn [=_gain, win_] their trust/respect.

b

:

to make (someone) worthy or deserving of (something)

• His hard work earned [=_gained_] him a promotion.
• Her honesty earned [=_gained, won_] her their trust/respect.