I. noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English, from gerund of serven to serve
1. : the act or function of one that serves
the serving of a meal
2. : a helping of food or drink
3. : the thread or cord wrapped around the middle of a bowstring to protect it from the nock of the arrow — called also whipping
4. : a layer of protective material (as jute yarn) put on the exterior of an armored or lead-covered electric cable
5. : service 13
II. adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from present participle of serven to serve
1. : employed or used to serve
a low serving bench on which are placed four or five pots containing food — Norman Mailer
serving wench
2. : belonging to a military service
a serving officer in the British army — M.C.A.Henniker