serving

[sur-ving]

noun

1. the act of a person or thing that serves.

2. a single portion of food or drink; helping.

3. Electricity.,  a layer of material, as jute yarn or tape, that is applied to the core or the exterior of a lead-covered cable and acts as a protective covering.

adjective

1. for use in distributing food to or at the table.

   a serving tray.

serving

/ ˈsɜːvɪŋ /

noun

1. a portion or helping of food or drink

Other Word Forms

• unserving adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of serving¹

First recorded in 1175–1225; Middle English; serve + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

He is expected to begin serving his prison sentence shortly as his appeal process comes to an end.

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“California Community Colleges are open-access institutions dedicated to serving all students. The California Community Colleges will follow all legal obligations and fully participate in the judicial process alongside our state partners,” said Chancellor Sonya Christian.

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Historically, serving as California attorney general has been a launching pad to higher office or a top post in Washington.

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“Coach G is my mentor and we expect to win every game,” said Terrance Whitehead, who is serving as interim coach and running practices in Garrett’s absence.

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"We've chosen to plant it among some other 'saved' trees that we have planted on Sowe Common, serving as a beacon to inspire respect, understanding and a sense of responsibility toward all trees," she said.

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Related Words

• dollop 
• plate