Received payment or reward for work or effort; gained something through merit or accomplishment.
From Old English 'earnian,' meaning 'to gain' or 'acquire.' The root relates to 'earnest' (serious/sincere), suggesting that earning originally implied serious, dedicated effort. The commercial sense solidified by the Middle Ages.
Psychologically, things we earn feel more valuable than things we receive for free—this is called the 'endowment effect.' Neuroscience shows our brains literally reward the effort of earning differently than receiving gifts, which is why participation trophies don't satisfy the way earned victories do!
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.