serve (A2)

verb

Pronunciation: /sɜːrv/

Definition

To give food or drinks to someone, especially at a restaurant or a party.

Examples

• The waiter served us a delicious meal.

• She served coffee to all the guests.

• Can you serve the cake now?

How to Use serve

serve [someone] [something] (prepositional phrase)

To give food or drink to a person. — "The waiter served us a drink."

serve [someone] with [something] (prepositional phrase)

To officially give a person a legal document. — "The police served the suspect with a notice."

serve as [something] (prepositional phrase)

To be useful or act in a particular role. — "This room will serve as an office."

serve [in/on] [place/group] (prepositional phrase)

To work or perform duties in a specific place or group. — "She served in the military."

Synonyms of serve

Words with a similar meaning to serve:

• provide
• supply
• attend
• minister

Antonyms of serve

Words with the opposite meaning to serve:

• take
• refuse

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