Warrant (5)
'warrant' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for merit that I've seen before include "credit" , "distinction" , "The M in OM" , "Excellence, desert" , "Have a right" .)
'warrant' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)
This is all the clue.
(Other definitions for earn that I've seen before include "Win" , "Merit through work or endeavour" , "Make - merit" , "Acquire money by labour" , "Receive in return for" .)
'warrant' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is all the clue.
(Other definitions for deserve that I've seen before include "Warrant" , "Merit (something)" , "rate" , "Justify" , "Be entitled to" .)