v. t.
It is a great credit to know the ways of captivating Nature, and making her subserve our purposes, than to have learned all the intrigues of policy. Glanvill. [ 1913 Webster ]
v. i. To be subservient or subordinate; to serve in an inferior capacity. [ 1913 Webster ]
Not made to rule,
But to subserve where wisdom bears command. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ]