merit system

noun

a system or policy whereby people are promoted or rewarded on the basis of ability and achievement rather than because of seniority, quotas, patronage, or the like.

merit system

See spoils system
the system of employing and promoting civil servants solely on the basis of ability rather than patronage Compare spoils system

First recorded in 1895–1900

The commissioners took an oath to uphold the California Constitution, including the merit system rules, and your suggestion was abhorrent.

The only relief, concluded the report, was to be found in a thoroughgoing merit system of appointing civil servants.

This merit system is in operation to-day and is a most excellent thing, only becoming dangerous when extended too far.

Since 1904 a merit system has been applied in the advancement of teachers; civil service rules cover the rest of the employees.

A law was passed establishing a Commission which was to introduce the merit system.

Nevertheless, the "merit system" has not met the expectations of its most enthusiastic supporters.

April 19, 2024tortuous

[tawr-choo-uhs ]

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