merit
UK[ˈmer.ɪt]US[ˈmer.ɪt]
n
the quality of being good and deserving praise or reward
n
an advantage or good feature of something
v
to deserve or be worthy of something, especially praise, attention, or a reward
Etymology
the word 'merit' entered english in the late middle english period, borrowed directly from the old french 'merite'. this, in turn, derived from the latin 'meritum', meaning 'a service, kindness, benefit, or favor', and more literally 'that which is deserved'. the latin term originates from the past participle of the verb 'merēre', meaning 'to earn, deserve, or be entitled to'. the core semantic thread from its indo-european roots relates to receiving a share or portion, which evolved through latin into the concept of earning something through action or quality. thus, the modern abstract meanings of deserving praise or possessing inherent worth are direct descendants of this ancient notion of justly earning one's due.
Analysis
the word 'merit' is a simplex loanword from latin. it does not contain separable morphemes in modern english spelling that can be recombined to form the full word.
Examples
the plan has considerable merit and deserves serious consideration.
one of the many merits of this book is its clear, accessible style.
her excellent performance merits a promotion.