Disserve

/dɪsˈsɜrv/ verb

Definition

To harm, damage, or act contrary to the interests of something; to do a disservice to.

Etymology

From Old French desservir (des- 'un-' + servir 'to serve'), meaning 'to serve badly' or 'to act against.' The prefix dis- here means 'opposite' or 'negative.'

Kelly Says

Interestingly, 'disserve' literally means 'to un-serve'—the opposite of the loyal, helpful 'service'—which is why saying 'you did him a disservice' implies betrayal of an expected loyalty.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.