subserve

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   formal: to help to promote, advance, or achieve a purpose

   The rough pads on the animal's feet may subserve the same gripping function as claws.

2. 2
   verb

   rare: to serve in a subordinate capacity or make oneself useful to another

   The official refused to subserve a private interest at the public's expense.

Borrowed from Latin subservire, 'to serve under or assist,' from sub-, 'under,' + servire, 'to serve.' In formal English the verb developed the common construction subserve an end, meaning to help bring about a purpose.

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