<p><strong>Verb (used with object)</strong></p><ul><li>to gain or get in return for one's labor or service: to earn one's living.</li><li>to merit as compensation, as for service; deserve: to receive more than one has earned.</li><li>to acquire through merit: to earn a reputation for honesty.</li><li>to gain as due return or profit: Savings accounts earn interest.</li><li>to bring about or cause deservedly: His fair dealing earned our confidence.</li></ul><p><strong>Verb (used without object)</strong></p><ul><li>to gain income: securities that earn on a quarterly basis.</li></ul>