ern.

To merit or deserve by labor, or by any performance; to do that which entitles to a reward, whether the reward is received or not. Men often earn money or honor which they never receive. Earn money before you spend it, and spend less than you earn.

To gain by labor, service or performance; to deserve and receive as compensation; as, to earn a dollar a day; to earn a good living; to earn honors or laurels.