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

• resolve
• answer
• unravel

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

Every day brings a new word, and everyone around the world is trying to solve the same puzzle. —Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 14 Sep. 2025

New technology can solve crimes faster, safer, and less expensively than ever before. —Jennifer Jolly, USA Today, 14 Sep. 2025

Fulton, who signed a two-year, $20-million free-agent deal this offseason, could potentially solve a lot of problems once coaches can trust him. —Jesse Newell, New York Times, 13 Sep. 2025

With his new company, Lunaz (named for his daughter Luna), Lorenz sought to solve that issue by updating some of Britain’s most iconic vehicles with contemporary components and an electric drivetrain. —Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 13 Sep. 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

Rhymes for solve

• absolve
• devolve
• dissolve
• evolve
• involve
• resolve
• revolve

Kids Definition

solve

verb

ˈsälv 

ˈsȯlv

solved; solving

: to find a solution for

solve a puzzle