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Synonyms

serving

American  
[sur-ving] / ˈsɜr vɪŋ /

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 British  
/ ˈsɜːvɪŋ /

noun

  1. a portion or helping of food or drink

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • unserving adjective

Etymology

Origin of serving

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

Vocabulary lists containing serving

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

She deputised for manager Nenad Bjelica, who was serving a three-match suspension, during a 1-0 win over Darmstadt in January 2024 to become the first woman to lead a Bundesliga team from the touchline.

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

Their design could also be integrated with other quantum technologies, serving as a building block for connecting different types of quantum platforms.

From Science Daily • Apr. 13, 2026

Her father, former president Alberto Fujimori, died in 2024 after serving 16 years in prison for crimes against humanity, bribery and embezzlement.

From Barron's • Apr. 13, 2026

“I have spent every day serving California residents, making our lives better and safer. I have fought for you, and I have bled for you,” Bianco said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 12, 2026

Midday, Leo sets a serving table on the porch.

From "Paradise on Fire" by Jewell Parker Rhodes