Meanings
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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.
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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.
Thesaurus
Etymology
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.