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

Also, because of this decision in Florida, more states will begin to enact similar legislation regarding AOB's and other reforms—implemented to solve the litigation crisis that's plagued Florida since abusive AOB's first appeared in property insurance claims. —Tommy Tuberville, Newsweek, 8 Jan. 2025

Markstrom’s arrival has solved New Jersey’s years-long net issues. —Harman Dayal, The Athletic, 8 Jan. 2025

The proliferation of point solutions—tools that solve only one or two specific pain points—has left organizations drowning in software. —Joshua Siler, Forbes, 8 Jan. 2025

Big spending couldn’t solve Tennessee’s issues last offseason. —Fox News Staff, Fox News, 8 Jan. 2025

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