English Reference
verb · adjective

earned

v. · adj.
US /ˈɝnd/ UK /ˈɜːnd/ earned

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    v.to have received money in return for doing a job.

    v.the past tense of 'earn', indicating the receipt of financial compensation in exchange for labour or services.

    Simple

    She earned a lot of money last summer by working at the beach café.

    In context

    He earned a substantial bonus after successfully negotiating the merger, reflecting his significant contribution to the firm's annual revenue.

    Usage

    This is the past tense and past participle form of the verb.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    v.to have gained something like respect or a reputation because of your hard work.

    v.to have merited or acquired a non-monetary attribute through effort or conduct.

    Simple

    The team earned a place in the final after winning every game this season.

    In context

    The professor earned the respect of her colleagues through decades of rigorous research and consistent academic integrity.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced TechnicalAcademic

    adj.describes media coverage or attention that you get for free because people like what you do.

    adj.referring to publicity or visibility gained through organic means rather than paid advertising.

    Simple

    The video went viral, giving the small company millions in earned media.

    In context

    The marketing strategy focused on earned media, leveraging social shares and press mentions to build brand authority without a traditional advertising budget.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the phrase 'earned media' within marketing and communications.

Usage earned a reputation · earned her two · earned his first

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated