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Serve - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

To serve means to perform duties or provide assistance for others, such as in a job, community, or during a meal. It can also mean to deliver or present something, like a legal document.

serve

/sɝv/ /sɜːv/

Definition:

To perform duties or services for others, or to present food or drink.

Synonyms:

assist, help, attend, provide

Part of Speech:

verb, noun

Antonyms:

neglect, refuse

Common Collocations:

serve food, serve a purpose, serve time, serve customers

Derivatives:

server, service, serving

Usage Tips:

Use "serve" for actions benefiting others or presenting meals; it can also mean fulfilling a role or function.

Common Phrases:

serve someone right, serve under someone, serve up a storm

Etymology:

From Old French "servir," Latin "servire," meaning "to be a slave" or "to do service."

Examples:

  • 1. She will serve dinner at six o'clock.
  • 2. He serves as the team captain this season.
  • 3. The waiter will serve us soon.
  • 4. This tool serves multiple purposes in the kitchen.

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