meed

The word "meed" refers to a deserved reward, payment, or recognition, often given for service, merit, or achievement. It carries an archaic or literary tone and appears far more often in older writing, poetry, or formal contexts than in everyday modern speech. Unlike a general "reward," which may or may not suggest merit, meed usually points to something that is rightly earned.

Historically, "meed" could refer to wages or payment for work, as well as to honor or praise given in return for worthy action. In older stories, a knight might seek meed from his lord after completing a dangerous task. But the idea is not limited to money or goods. It can also describe respect, gratitude, or public praise that someone has earned.

You are unlikely to hear someone say, "I expect my meed!" in ordinary conversation, but you may come across the word when people write about heroism, duty, devotion, or high achievement in a literary way. For example: "After years of tireless service, the doctor finally received the meed he deserved." Or, "The poet asked only the meed of remembrance."

While it is uncommon in modern speech, understanding "meed" helps you notice an important shade of meaning: the sense that a reward or praise is not just given, but deserved. At its heart, the word is about receiving what is rightly due for something worthy that has been done.