A more thorough explanation:

Definition: Meritorious (mer-uh-tor-ee-uhs) is an adjective used to describe an act or case that deserves recognition, reward, or legal victory.

Examples:

• A soldier who risks their life to save others in combat is performing a meritorious act.
• A student who consistently earns high grades and participates in extracurricular activities may receive a meritorious award.
• A lawyer who presents a strong and valid argument in court may have a meritorious claim.

The examples illustrate how meritorious is used to describe actions or situations that are deserving of recognition or reward. In the first example, the soldier's act of bravery is meritorious because it goes above and beyond what is expected of them. In the second example, the student's hard work and dedication are meritorious because they have achieved success through their own efforts. In the third example, the lawyer's argument is meritorious because it has legal worth and is likely to result in a favorable outcome for their client.