Meritoriously

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. In a way that merits acknowledgment or rewards
2. Done in a fashion that is deserving of esteem or distinction
3. Performed in a way that deserves recognition or honors

Etymology: "Meritoriously" is a straightforward formation: the adjective "meritorious" with the adverbial suffix "-ly" added to the end. The adjective itself comes from Latin "meritorius," relating to earning or deserving, and it is the root of the English noun "merit," which derives from the Latin verb "merere," meaning to earn or deserve. So the word carries the sense of something earned rather than simply given. The adverb entered Middle English, where it was formed in the same way from the adjective. Its meaning follows that of its base: an action done in a way that deserves praise, reward, or recognition. The suffix does no more than turn the quality into a description of how something was done.

Synonyms: deservedly, commendably