What does meritorious mean?
Meritorious describes an action, quality, achievement, or contribution that is especially deserving of praise or recognition. The word carries a formal, approving tone and is often used in official reports, legal contexts, awards, and institutional evaluations. A person or act may be described as meritorious when its excellence or helpfulness goes beyond what might ordinarily be expected. The common expression “meritorious service” recognizes sustained or valuable service, particularly in public, military, professional, or voluntary roles. Although “commendable” is a plainer alternative, “meritorious” can imply that recognition is justified and sometimes suggests that the conduct may qualify for an award or other benefit. The word is not commonly used for routine everyday tasks; it is appropriate when emphasizing distinction, integrity, courage, usefulness, or exceptional contribution.
adjectiveDeserving of praise, commendation, or reward because of qualities or actions judged to be exceptionally good. In legal and official contexts, it may indicate conduct that is especially deserving of recognition or benefit.
- Deserving of praise, commendation, or reward; commendable.
"The firefighters received commendations for their meritorious service during the emergency."
"The scientist was recognized for her meritorious contributions to medical research."
"The court considered the defendant’s assistance to the investigation meritorious."
A meritorious act earns more than applause: the word often marks achievements considered worthy of formal recognition or reward.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does meritorious come from?
Meritorious comes from Latin meritorius, meaning “deserving of reward” or “having merit.” It was formed from meritum, the Latin noun meaning “reward, payment, or value,” which developed from meritus, “earned” or “deserving.” English borrowed the adjective during the 17th century, and later forms such as “meritocracy” continued the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How meritorious is actually used
Formal and often somewhat institutional, especially in legal, military, academic, and official contexts. It is more emphatic than simply “good” and is frequently applied to service, conduct, performance, or achievement.