Main Entry:

ab·solve

Pronunciation:

\əb-ˈzälv, -ˈsälv, -ˈzȯlv, -ˈsȯlv also without l\

Function:

transitive verb

Inflected Form(s):

ab·solved; ab·solv·ing

Etymology:

Middle English, from Latin absolvere, from ab- + solvere to loosen — more at solve

Date:

15th century

1 : to set free from an obligation or the consequences of guilt 2 : to remit (a sin) by absolution

synonyms see exculpate

— ab·solv·er noun