the GNU version of the Collaborative International Dictionary of English
adj. Gained as a result of effort or action; -- used especially of income. Contrasted with unearned.
adj. not resulting from an error by an opposing team; -- used in the phrase earned runs.
WordNet 3.0 Copyright 2006 by Princeton University. All rights reserved.
adj. gained or acquired; especially through merit or as a result of effort or action
Word Usage
"He chose Sazanka because, in Japan, the plant represents the ideal of “never giving up”—a designation earned by the way that the flower survives the cold, even after snowfalls."