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

Jim sharpened his skills for over 40 years, solving challenges in production facilities worldwide and innovating in equipment design and operation. —Grace Butler, USA TODAY, 1 Feb. 2025

Leadership should prioritize solving Boynton Beach’s existing problems — like affordable housing, traffic congestion and public safety — before taking on new ones. —Dominick Vargas, Sun Sentinel, 1 Feb. 2025

Spending time at the level of syntax is a waste for students who simply want to use coding to help solve problems rather than learn the skill of programming. —Daniel Zingaro, The Conversation, 31 Jan. 2025

If so, the issuer can furnish another form to you, and the problem is solved. —Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes, 30 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