(ˌ)səbˈsərv, -ˈsə̄v, -ˈsəiv verb
Etymology: Latin subservire, from sub- + servire to serve — more at serve
intransitive verb
: to hold or function in a subordinate position in respect to something
the lesser need must subserve to the greater
transitive verb
1.
a. : to serve as an instrument or means in carrying on (as an activity) or out (as a plan) or in furthering the ends of (as a person)
if we are going to subserve the purpose for which rent control was adopted — Congressional Record
b. : to function for or serve to promote the betterment, welfare, or effectiveness of
an organism in which every part has its place and subserves the whole — Frank Thilly
c. : to be in accord with : accord honor or respect to
Napoleon's star rose as long as he subserved the great ideas of the French revolution — Lucien Price
2. archaic : to avail (oneself) of something