serve

Definitions

1. noun

   The act of hitting the ball to start play in a game such as tennis.

   Examples

   • Whose serve is it?
   • Her serve was fast and hard to return.
   ≈service
2. noun

   A portion of food or drink.

   Examples

   • Have a small serve of rice with your fish.
   • The cafe gives a big serve of chips.
   ≈serving
3. noun

   In slang, an impressive look or performance.

   Examples

   • That white eyeliner is such a serve.
   • Her outfit at the party was a total serve.
4. verb

   To work for someone as a servant or employee.

   Examples

   • She served the family for many years.
   • He did not like the man he served.
5. verb

   To do a job or hold an official position.

   Examples

   • He served the company faithfully for thirty years.
   • She served as mayor for two terms.
6. verb

   To worship and work for a god.

   Examples

   • The priests served the god of the temple every day.
   • She served the goddess as a devoted helper.
7. verb

   To help people at a table by bringing them food.

   Examples

   • The waiter served the guests quickly.
   • She served her elderly parents at every meal.
8. verb

   To put food or drink on the table for people to eat.

   Examples

   • Dinner is served at seven.
   • They served snacks before the main course.
9. verb

   To treat someone in a certain way.

   Examples

   • They served him badly and he left angry.
   • She felt the company had served her unfairly.
10. verb

    In old-fashioned use, to try to win the love of someone.

    Examples

    • He served her faithfully for years, hoping she would notice him.
    • The knight served his lady from far away.