serve

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”

work for, or be a servant to“May I serve you?”

be sufficient; be adequate, either in quality or quantity“A few words would answer”

serve a purpose, role, or function“The tree stump serves as a table”

be used by; as of a utility“The sewage plant served the neighboring communities”

deliver a warrant or summons to someone“He was processed by the sheriff”

contribute or conduce to“The scandal served to increase his popularity”

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”

mate with“male animals serve the females for breeding purposes”

do duty or hold offices; serve in a specific function“He served as head of the department for three years”

do military service“She served in Vietnam”

put the ball into play“It was Agassi's turn to serve”

(sports) a stroke that puts the ball in play“his powerful serves won the game”