undeserved
UK: ˌʌndɪˈzɜːvd | US: ˌʌndɪˈzɜːrvd
adj. not earned or merited; unjustified
The word "undeserved" combines the prefix "un-" (Old English "un-," meaning "not") with "deserve" (from Latin "deservire," meaning "to serve zealously or earn by service") and the suffix "-ed" (indicating a past participle). The prefix "un-" negates the root "deserve," creating a term that describes something not earned or unjustified. Over time, "deserve" evolved from its Latin roots through Old French ("deservir") into Middle English, retaining its core meaning of earning through merit.
He received undeserved criticism for a mistake he didn’t make.
The team’s loss was an undeserved outcome after their hard work.
She felt guilty about the undeserved praise she received.
The punishment was harsh and entirely undeserved.
His reputation suffered due to undeserved rumors.