(sports) a stroke that puts the ball in play; his powerful serves won the game
[ Syn: service ]
serve (n.)
serve a purpose, role, or function; 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
[ Syn: function ]
work for or be a servant to; 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
deliver a warrant or summons to someone; He was processed by the sheriff
be sufficient; be adequate, either in quality or quantity; A few words would answer; This car suits my purpose well; Will $100 do?; A B grade doesnt suffice to get me into medical school; Nothing else will serve
do military service; She served in Vietnam; My sons never served, because they are short-sighted'
mate with; male animals serve the females for breeding purposes
[ Syn: service ]
put the ball into play; It was Agassi's turn to serve'
do duty or hold offices; serve in a specific function; He served as head of the department for three years; She served in Congress for two terms'
contribute or conduce to; The scandal served to increase his popularity'
be used by; as of a utility; The sewage plant served the neighboring communities; The garage served to shelter his horses
[ Syn: service ]
help to some food; help with food or drink; I served him three times, and after that he helped himself
[ Syn: help ]
provide (usually but not necessarily food); We serve meals for the homeless; She dished out the soup at 8 P.M.; The entertainers served up a lively show
devote (part of) one's life or efforts to, as of countries, institutions, or ideas; She served the art of music; He served the church; serve the country'
promote, benefit, or be useful or beneficial to; Art serves commerce; Their interests are served; The lake serves recreation; The Presidents wisdom has served the country well
[ Syn: serve well ]
spend time in prison or in a labor camp; He did six years for embezzlement
[ Syn: do ]