Definition of earning:
(v) :
(transitive) To gain (success, reward, recognition) through applied effort or work.
(v) :
(transitive) To receive payment for work or for a role or position held (regardless of whether effort was applied or whether the remuneration is deserved or commensurate).
(v) :
(intransitive) To receive payment for work.
(v) :
(transitive) To cause (someone) to receive payment or reward.
(v) :
(transitive) To achieve by being worthy of.
(v) :
(transitive, archaic) To curdle (milk), especially in the cheesemaking process.