From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary Englishwell-earnedˌwell-ˈearned adjective DESERVEsomething that is well-earned is something you deserve because you have worked hard a well-earned rest a well-earned drink
Examples from the Corpus
well-earned• The knitting correspondent was taking a well-earned break from the strenuous world of woollens, courtesy of her travel editor.• Two days later Diana took a well-earned break, her last as a private citizen.• Then it's home for a well-earned cup of coffee, and sleep.• His poems have brought him national acknowledgement and well-earned distinction.• Many parents are only too eager to hand their child over to a babysitter and enjoy a well-earned night out.• The city has a well-earned reputation for corruption.• It has a well-earned reputation for unrivalled luxury, superb cuisine and discreet service. 