'serve' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'serven', where it was borrowed from Old French 'servir', ultimately from Latin 'servire' and the noun 'servus' where 'servus' meant 'slave' or 'servant'.

'serve' changed from Old French word 'servir' and Middle English 'serven' and eventually became the modern English word 'serve'.

Initially, it meant 'to be a servant or slave', but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'to perform duties', 'to provide food or service', and 'to function as'.