Definitions

1. verb

to provide food, drink, or accommodations to someone, especially in a public place

“The waiter came to serve the customer his meal.”

2. verb

to be useful or of help to someone

“The new policy is designed to serve the interests of low-income families.”

3. verb

to hit a ball into the opponent’s court in tennis, squash, or other racket sports

“She served the ball with great force and accuracy.”

4. verb

to do something as a job or profession

“He serves as a doctor in a local hospital.”

5. noun

a course or way of doing something, especially a way of achieving a particular goal

“The new serve was a key part of their winning strategy.”

6. noun

a turn to hit the ball in a game such as tennis or squash

“It’s her serve, and she’s got a good chance of winning this point.”

7. noun

a way of being of use or benefit, especially to a particular person or group

“The community center is a serve to the local community.”