Earn
/ɜːrn/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo receive money or something else as a result of your work or efforts.
/ɜːrn/
To obtain something as a result of one's efforts or work
She earns a high salary in her new job.
💡 Simply: Imagine you did a lot of chores or helped your parents. They give you some money as a reward, right? That's like earning! You get something because you did something.
👶 For kids: To get something, like money or a prize, because you did something good or worked hard.
More Examples
He earned the title of 'Employee of the Month' due to his dedication.
The company earns its revenue from online sales.
How It's Used
"The company aims to earn a profit this quarter."
"He earns a good salary."
"She earns respect through her honesty."
To deserve or be worthy of something, especially respect or recognition.
/ɜːrn/
To deserve or merit something
He earned the gratitude of the community for his volunteer work.
💡 Simply: Think of it like this: You are super helpful and kind to your friends. They start liking you more, right? You have earned their friendship because you were good to them.
👶 For kids: To get something because you deserve it, like getting a star for being good.
More Examples
She has earned a reputation for being a reliable employee.
The team earned a victory after a difficult game.
How It's Used
"She earned her place in the team with her hard work."
"He earned a reputation for being fair."
Idioms & expressions
earn one's keep
To do enough work or provide enough value to pay for one's living expenses or to be considered a valuable member.
"He has to earn his keep by helping around the house."
From Old English *earnien*, *earnian* meaning 'to gain, win, deserve', related to Old High German *arnon* and Proto-Germanic **aznōną*.
Used widely since the Middle Ages to describe receiving or gaining something through effort or merit.
Memory tip
Think of 'learning' – you earn knowledge through learning, and you earn money through work.