solve

verb

ˈsälv 

ˈsȯlv

solved; solving

transitive verb

1

: to find a solution, explanation, or answer for

solve a problem

solved the crime

2

: to pay in full

solve a debt

intransitive verb

: to solve something

substitute and solve for x

solver noun

Synonyms

• answer
• break
• crack
• dope (out)
• figure out
• puzzle (out)
• resolve
• riddle (out)
• unravel
• unriddle
• work
• work out

Examples of solve in a Sentence

They are working to solve the traffic problem.

If they'll lend us the money we need, all our problems will be solved.

He couldn't solve the math problem.

The mystery has been solved.

The FBI has been trying to solve the case for years.

Recent Examples on the Web

These emerging trends that will shape 2025 are not about innovation for its own sake but about preparing students for a future that prioritizes adaptability, human-centric skills, and cognitive problem solving. —Mary Hemphill, Phd, Forbes, 21 Dec. 2024

At Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, a newly-reinvigorated population of native southern sea otters have eaten so many invasive European green crabs that researchers say the otters have locally solved a problem that has plagued the West Coast for years. —Nicole Fallert, USA TODAY, 21 Dec. 2024

My time at Algorand and Manta taught me how to navigate the startup world and solve real-world problems. —Benedict Cosgrove, Newsweek, 20 Dec. 2024

Obasi can’t stand the stench of this alien — who's also a commoner, to boot — and solves the inconvenience by handing him off to his queen Eshe (Thandiwe Newton), who'll raise him in the company of the pride’s females. —Tom Gliatto, People.com, 20 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, to loosen, from Latin solvere to loosen, solve, dissolve, from sed-, se- apart + luere to release — more at secede, lose

First Known Use

circa 1533, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Kids Definition

solve

verb

ˈsälv 

ˈsȯlv

solved; solving

: to find a solution for

solve a puzzle