well-earned

Gained through effort

Well-earned describes something fully deserved through effort or achievement: a well-earned vacation, well-earned praise.

The term emphasizes that the reward or recognition came legitimately, not by luck or favoritism.

After months of grueling work, she enjoyed a well-earned rest.

merit

deserved

Rightfully earned or warranted

due · warranted · fitting · legitimate · proper · entitled · fair · appropriate · valid · justifiable

achievement

accomplishment

Successful completion of aim

victory · breakthrough · culmination · attainment · completion · fulfillment · feat · capstone · crowning moment · pinnacle

effort

perseverance

Sustained resolve despite obstacles

  • diligenceCareful, persistent effort
  • toilStrenuous, prolonged effort
  • laborStrenuous effort; also childbirth

grind · sweat · endeavor · struggle · dedication · exertion · tenacity · persistence · hard work · sacrifice

reward

bonus

Reward beyond expectation

promotion · raise · vacation · retirement · rest · break · recognition · payout · windfall · benefit

recognition

accolade

Expression of high esteem

kudos · praise · acknowledgment · applause · distinction · laurels · respect · validation · acclaim · appreciation

satisfaction

contentment

Peaceful satisfaction with circumstances

fulfillment · pleasure · joy · comfort · peace of mind · vindication · closure · elation

Opposites
deservedness

well-earnedundeserved

Not rightfully owed

unmerited · unearned · unwarranted · unjustified · ill-gotten

means of acquisition

well-earnedunearned

Not rightfully gained

ill-gotten · handed · windfall · stolen · effortless

Family

well, earn, earned, earnings, deserving, well-being, earning, deserves, earner

Familiarity
Top 50,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Abstract · Positive · Everyday, not technical · Rated G