merit

Usage

• meretricious

  Something meretricious seems good and useful; in fact, it’s just showy and does not have much value at all.

• meritorious

  Someone who is meritorious is worthy of receiving recognition or is praiseworthy because of what they have accomplished.

• emeritus

  The adjective emeritus refers to a leader or professional who is retired—and often who gave distinguished service—and still retains their title, such as a professor or president.

• demerit

  a mark against a person for misconduct or failure

• merit(n.)

  any admirable quality or attribute

• merit(v.)

  be worthy or deserving

• emerita

  a female leader or professional who is retired