IPA: /ˌmɛrɪˈtɔːriəs/
KK: /mɛrɪˈtɔriəs/
Deserving recognition or praise for good qualities or achievements.
Her meritorious actions in the community earned her a prestigious award.
Meritorious → It is formed from "merit" (from Latin *meritum*, meaning a reward or worth) and the suffix "-orious" (meaning full of or characterized by). The word "meritorious" means full of merit or deserving praise and reward.
Think of 'merit' as worthiness and remember that 'meritorious' describes someone or something that is full of worthiness or deserving of praise.