Serve: meaning, definitions and examples

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serve

 

[ sərv ]

Verb / Noun
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Verb

in a restaurant

Perform duties for others by providing them with meals or drinks.

Synonyms

attend to, help, wait on

Examples of usage

  • He served us with tea and cakes.
  • She served us a delicious dinner.
Context #2 | Verb

in a legal setting

Present (someone) with a formal written notice of a lawsuit.

Synonyms

deliver, give, hand over

Examples of usage

  • The lawyer served the defendant with legal papers.
  • She served him with a court summons.
Context #3 | Verb

in tennis

Hit (the ball) from a stationary position to begin play.

Synonyms

hit, smash, strike

Examples of usage

  • She served an ace.
  • He served the ball with great speed.
Context #4 | Noun

in a restaurant

The action of helping or doing work for someone.

Synonyms

aid, assistance, help

Examples of usage

  • The waiter gave good service.
  • The service was excellent.

Translations

Translations of the word "serve" in other languages:

🇵🇹 servir

🇮🇳 सेवा करना

🇩🇪 dienen

🇮🇩 melayani

🇺🇦 служити

🇵🇱 służyć

🇯🇵 奉仕する (ほうしする)

🇫🇷 servir

🇪🇸 servir

🇹🇷 hizmet etmek

🇰🇷 봉사하다

🇸🇦 خدم

🇨🇿 sloužit

🇸🇰 slúžiť

🇨🇳 服务 (fúwù)

🇸🇮 streči

🇮🇸 þjóna

🇰🇿 қызмет көрсету

🇬🇪 მომსახურება

🇦🇿 xidmət etmək

🇲🇽 servir

Word origin

The word 'serve' originated from the Old French word 'servir', which means 'to serve'. It has been used in the English language since the 13th century. The concept of serving others has been an important aspect of human society throughout history, whether in terms of providing food and drinks, fulfilling legal duties, or engaging in sports activities.

Word Frequency Rank

At #952 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.