Chillingworth.
-- To serve out, to distribute; as, to serve out rations. -- To serve
the time or the hour, to regulate one's actions by the requirements of
the time instead of by one's duty; to be a timeserver. [Obs.]
They think herein we serve the time, because thereby we either hold
or seek preferment.
Hooker.
Syn. -- To obey; minister to; subserve; promote; aid; help; assist;
benefit; succor.
Serve (?), v. i. 1. To be a servant or a slave; to be employed in labor
or other business for another; to be in subjection or bondage; to
render menial service.
The Lord shall give thee rest . . . from the hard bondage wherein
thou wast made to serve.
Isa. xiv. 3.
2. To perform domestic offices; to be occupied with household affairs;
to prepare and dish up food, etc.
But Martha . . . said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath
left me to serve alone?
Luke x. 40.
3. To be in service; to do duty; to discharge the requirements of an
office or employment. Specifically, to act in the public service, as a
soldier, seaman. etc.
Many . . . who had before been great commanders, but now served as
private gentlemen without pay.
Knolles.
4. To be of use; to answer a purpose; to suffice; to suit; to be
convenient or favorable.
This little brand will serve to light your fire.
Dryden.
As occasion serves, this noble queen And prince shall follow with a
fresh supply.
Shak.