1
as in distinction
a quality that gives something special worth
this mystery novel at least has the merit of an original plot
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in value
the relative usefulness or importance of something as judged by specific qualities
that idea has some merit, so let's explore it
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of merit
Angelica Frey, JSTOR Daily, 26 Jan. 2025
This is not to say, however, that companion planting is without merit.
—Anthony Reardon, Kansas City Star, 24 Jan. 2025
Tara Suter, The Hill, 6 Jan. 2025
The forms are deceptively simple — a designer will spot the genius in them, but a layperson may not understand why pedestrian objects like a toaster, egg cup or sink may merit inclusion in a museum show.
—Rima Suqi, Forbes, 31 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for merit 
Noun
In fact, they can both be read as coming-out and self-determination anthems on the merits and strength of their own lyrics and in-universe interpretation.
—Angelica Frey, JSTOR Daily, 26 Jan. 2025
This is not to say, however, that companion planting is without merit.
—Anthony Reardon, Kansas City Star, 24 Jan. 2025
Verb
The statement also said that the FBI had received more than 5,000 reports of drone sightings in weeks prior, though only a small fraction merited follow-up.
—Tara Suter, The Hill, 6 Jan. 2025
The forms are deceptively simple — a designer will spot the genius in them, but a layperson may not understand why pedestrian objects like a toaster, egg cup or sink may merit inclusion in a museum show.
—Rima Suqi, Forbes, 31 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for merit
Recent Examples of Synonyms for merit
Noun
-
The prestigious distinction comes right as Restaurant Constance is celebrating its second anniversary, and Your Farms Your Table’s work is expanding to serve others in ways that feed his passions, as well as people in need.—
Heidi Finley,
Charlotte Observer,
30 Jan. 2025
-
Streaming may have collapsed the distinction between TV and film, but each is a distinctive form.—
Nina Metz,
Chicago Tribune,
30 Jan. 2025
Noun
-
Ultimately, Morgan was skeptical of the value in bringing Turner back.—
Gordon G. Chang,
Newsweek,
25 Jan. 2025
-
Unfortunately, while Ford famously swept the three podium spots, the car on offer failed to finish, though its rarity and contribution to motorsport history add to its blue-chip value.—
Viju Mathew,
Robb Report,
25 Jan. 2025
Verb
-
With prices starting at $33, these budget-friendly finds deserve a spot in your suitcase.—
Rosie Marder,
Travel + Leisure,
25 Jan. 2025
-
Renee Lawler, who first moved to the block in 1981, says the equestrian community in Long Beach is historic, fragile and deserves to thrive.—
Laura Anaya-Morga,
Los Angeles Times,
25 Jan. 2025
Noun
-
Carolina has this cap flexibility advantage because it’s been ruthless over the years about letting non-star UFAs walk.—
Harman Dayal,
The Athletic,
25 Jan. 2025
-
But Herro has been the more efficient player, with advantages in shooting percentage (47.4 to 44.9) and three-point percentage (40.4 to 39.0) and turnovers (2.3 per game to Lillard’s 2.8).—
Barry Jackson,
Miami Herald,
25 Jan. 2025
Noun
-
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky insists that such a deal can be hard to reach, emphasizing the importance of a just peace over a swift one.—
Iuliia Mendel,
TIME,
29 Jan. 2025
-
His book offers a glimpse into the importance of balancing hormones and working to improve and maintain whole-body health.—
Nick Kasmik,
USA TODAY,
29 Jan. 2025
Noun
-
For many professionals, the relentless pursuit of goals, often at the expense of personal well-being, has been elevated to a virtue.—
Amy Blankson,
Forbes,
22 Jan. 2025
-
If these bathrooms are supposedly for the public, then by virtue of excluding certain people, the message is that their needs are not for consideration.—
The Editors,
JSTOR Daily,
22 Jan. 2025
Noun
-
Not all Vin de France wines are emblems of excellence or ingenuity.—
Anna Lee C. Iijima,
Bon Appétit,
22 Jan. 2025
-
His leadership fostered a culture of creativity and excellence, ensuring Vidanta remains at the forefront of the luxury travel.—
Eric Fuller,
Forbes,
22 Jan. 2025
Thesaurus Entries Near merit
Cite this Entry
“Merit.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/merit. Accessed 3 Feb. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share