serve

Dictionary definition · serve

serve a purpose, role, or function"The tree stump serves as a table"
do duty or hold offices; serve in a specific function"He served as head of the department for three years"
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"
help to some food; help with food or drink"I served him three times, and after that he helped himself"
provide (usually but not necessarily food)"We serve meals for the homeless"
devote (part of) one's life or efforts to, as of countries, institutions, or ideas"She served the art of music"
promote, benefit, or be useful or beneficial to"Art serves commerce"
spend time in prison or in a labor camp"He did six years for embezzlement"
work for, or be a servant to"May I serve you?"
deliver a warrant or summons to someone"He was processed by the sheriff"

Source: Open English WordNet (CC BY 4.0).