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

For example, access to resources like clean water in an arid climate and how to get resources reliably to the site are challenges to solve for. —Nargess Banks, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024

Regardless, the Chargers need to solve their offensive issues, and fast. —Sam Farmer, Los Angeles Times, 22 Oct. 2024

So, laxatives might be used until the cause of the constipation is understood or solved. —Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 21 Oct. 2024

Photonics potentially solves all of these challenges. —Jeremy Kahn, Fortune, 21 Oct. 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