Unmeritorious: meaning, definitions and examples
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unmeritorious
[ ʌnˌmɛrɪˈtɔːriəs ]
lack of merit
Unmeritorious describes something that does not have merit or worthiness. It refers to actions or qualities that fail to deserve praise or recognition.
Synonyms
inferior, insignificant, undeserving, unworthy.
Examples of usage
- His unmeritorious behavior went unnoticed at the awards ceremony.
- The committee rejected the unmeritorious proposals.
- She was criticized for her unmeritorious claims.
- They dismissed the unmeritorious attempts to gain attention.
Etymology
The word 'unmeritorious' originates from the combination of the prefix 'un-', meaning 'not', and 'meritorious', which itself derives from the Latin word 'meritorius', meaning 'deserving of reward'. The Latin root comes from 'meritum', which means 'merit' or 'deservedness'. Historically, the term has been used in English since the late 19th century to describe actions or attributes that lack value, worth, or deservingness. Its usage has remained relatively stable, primarily found in formal or critical contexts when discussing character, actions, or achievements that fail to warrant acknowledgment or honor.