What does meritoriously mean?
Meritoriously is a formal adverb meaning in a way that deserves praise, commendation, or reward. It describes conduct, service, work, or achievement that is notably admirable or beneficial. The word is especially common in official reports, military and institutional language, historical accounts, and formal recognition of contributions. For example, someone may be described as having served meritoriously during a crisis, or a committee may commend a volunteer for acting meritoriously. Its tone is strongly approving and carries a more elevated, ceremonious quality than everyday alternatives such as commendably or admirably. The word is related to the adjective meritorious and to the noun merit, expressing the idea of worthiness rather than merely competence.
adverbIn a way that deserves praise or reward; commendably or admirably.
- In a manner that deserves praise or reward.
"The team worked meritoriously to complete the project ahead of schedule."
"She contributed meritoriously to the charity's national campaign."
"The officers were decorated for their meritorious conduct during the emergency."
Meritoriously turns a commendable deed into a polished description: it means not merely that something was done well, but that it earned recognition.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does meritoriously come from?
Meritoriously derives from the adjective meritorious, which comes from the Latin meritorius, meaning deserving of reward or praise. The underlying noun merit derives from Latin meritum, meaning reward or what is deserved, and reflects a long history in English legal and religious language. The adverbial form with -ly developed during the regular English formation of adverbs from adjectives and now emphasizes the commendable manner of an action or service.
Related word forms
How meritoriously is actually used
Formal and commendatory; it is typically used in official, historical, or evaluative contexts rather than everyday conversation.
Easily confused with meritoriously
Meritorious is an adjective describing an action or quality that deserves praise, while meritoriously is an adverb describing how something is done.