Definition

Not earned or justified; something that is unfair or not deserved.

Example

He received an undeserved punishment for something he didn't do.

Conversation

Did you hear about the promotion that Mike got?

Yeah, I was surprised! It seems a bit undeserved to me.

I agree, he's hardly been putting in the effort lately.

Exactly! It makes you wonder how they make those decisions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Undeserved → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "deserve" (from Old French *deservir*, meaning to earn or merit). The word "undeserved" means not earned or not merited.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') earning something ('deserve') — that's why undeserved means something that is not earned.

Visually Confused Words