English dictionary
serve
nounPronunciation
sɜːv
Audio pronunciation
Parts of speech
Definitions
noun
- (sports) a stroke that puts the ball in play
verb
- put the ball into play
verb
- do duty or hold offices; serve in a specific function
verb
- provide (usually but not necessarily food)
verb
- help to some food; help with food or drink
verb
- mate with
verb
- deliver a warrant or summons to someone
verb
- do military service
verb
- work for, or be a servant to
verb
- be used by; as of a utility
verb
- devote (part of) one's life or efforts to, as of countries, institutions, or ideas
verb
- be sufficient; be adequate, either in quality or quantity
verb
- contribute or conduce to
verb
- promote, benefit, or be useful or beneficial to
verb
- serve a purpose, role, or function
verb
- spend time in prison or in a labor camp
Example sentences
his powerful serves won the game
It was Agassi's turn to serve
He served as head of the department for three years
She served in Congress for two terms
We serve meals for the homeless
She dished out the soup at 8 P.M.
The entertainers served up a lively show
I served him three times, and after that he helped himself
male animals serve the females for breeding purposes
He was processed by the sheriff
She served in Vietnam
My sons never served, because they are short-sighted
May I serve you?
She attends the old lady in the wheelchair
Can you wait on our table, please?
Is a salesperson assisting you?
The minister served the King for many years
The sewage plant served the neighboring communities
The garage served to shelter his horses
She served the art of music
He served the church
serve the country
A few words would answer
This car suits my purpose well
Will $100 do?
A ‘B’ grade doesn't suffice to get me into medical school
Nothing else will serve
The scandal served to increase his popularity
Art serves commerce
Their interests are served
The lake serves recreation
The President's wisdom has served the country well
The tree stump serves as a table
The female students served as a control group
This table would serve very well
His freedom served him well
The table functions as a desk
He did six years for embezzlement