deserving
v. B2 Upper Intermediate US //dɪˈzɝvɪŋ// UK //dɪzˈɜːvɪŋ// de·serv·ing
v. worthy of being given something like help, praise, or a reward because of your qualities or actions.
v. worthy of being treated in a particular way, typically regarding merit, assistance, or reward.
The charity helps deserving families in the local area.
After working overtime for three months, she felt she was deserving of a long holiday.
The committee struggled to allocate the limited scholarship funds among so many deserving candidates, all of whom demonstrated exceptional academic potential and financial need.
Usage
Often followed by the preposition 'of' when specifying the reward or treatment.
Pitfall
He is deserving to winHe is deserving of winningWhen followed by an action, this word requires 'of' plus the -ing form rather than an infinitive.