serve
Translation
to serve, to work as, to be useful for, to serve (in sports)
Examples
They serve breakfast at 7 AM.
They serve breakfast at 7 AM.
She served as a doctor for twenty years.
She served as a doctor for twenty years.
It's your turn to serve in the game.
It's your turn to serve in the game.
This tool serves many purposes.
This tool serves many purposes.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) ((to sb.)) to provide (sb.) with (sth.) They serve meals to the homeless.
((as sth.)) to work in a particular role She served as president for two terms.
((in sth.)) to spend a period of time in an organisation He served in the army for five years.
Similar Words
Synonyms: provide, offer, help; Antonyms: take, refuse
Etymology
From Latin 'servire' meaning 'to be a slave, be of service'.
Memory Tips
Picture a waiter serving a meal in a restaurant to remember the most common meaning.