1obtain (money) in return for labour or services:he earns his living as a lorry driver [with two objects]:earn yourself a few pounds [with two objects] (of an activity) cause (someone) to obtain (money):this latest win earned them $50,000 in prize money (of capital invested) gain (money) as interest or profit: the dollars can be placed on deposit and earn interest
2gain deservedly in return for one’s behaviour or achievements:through the years she has earned affection and esteem