01 n. That which one merits or deserves, either of good or ill; desert.
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1.
That which one merits or deserves, either of good or ill; desert.[Obs.]“By many benefits and demerits whereby they obliged their adherents, [they] acquired this reputation.” — Holland.
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2.
That which deserves blame; ill desert; a fault; a vice; misconduct; -- the opposite of merit.“They see no merit or demerit in any man or any action.” — Burke.“Secure, unless forfeited by any demerit or offense.” — Sir W. Temple.
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3.
The state of one who deserves ill.