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

Preparing For The Future AI can and will do many amazing things, but right now, adopting this technology shouldn’t be about chasing the flashiest capabilities or solving the most complex problems. —Hunter Steele, Forbes, 25 Feb. 2025

Getting to Genius, Part 2: Becoming Queen Bee Sept. 11, 2023 Join us here to solve Crosswords, The Mini and other games by The New York Times. —New York Times Games, New York Times, 25 Feb. 2025

In some cases, marinating or cooking can solve this problem. —Caroline Tien, SELF, 25 Feb. 2025

With his cozy storefront nestled in London’s Archangel Lane, Book offers his services to the local police, helping solve the most intricate cases. —Jamie Lang, Variety, 25 Feb. 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