Noah Webster's New International Dictionary of the English Language

1. (v. t.) To earn by service; to be worthy of (something due, either good or evil); to merit; to be entitled to; as, the laborer deserves his wages; a work of value deserves praise.

2. (v. t.) To serve; to treat; to benefit.

3. (v. i.) To be worthy of recompense; -- usually with ill or with well.