Definition of resolve
resolved
;resolving
transitive verb
2a : break up, separate the prism resolved the light into a play of color; also : to change by disintegrationb : to reduce by analysis resolve the problem into simple elementsc : to distinguish between or make independently visible adjacent parts ofd : to separate (a racemic compound or mixture) into the two components
3 : to cause resolution of (a pathological state)
4a : to deal with successfully : clear up resolve doubts resolve a disputeb : to find an answer toc : to make clear or understandabled : to find a mathematical solution ofe : to split up into two or more components especially in assigned directions resolve a vector
5 : to reach a firm decision about resolve to get more sleep resolve disputed points in a text
6a : to declare or decide by a formal resolution and voteb : to change by resolution or formal vote the house resolved itself into a committee
7 : to make (something, such as one or more voice parts or the total musical harmony) progress from dissonance to consonance
8 : to work out the resolution of (something, such as a play)
intransitive verb
resolver
nounIndulge Your Inner Word Nerd
Examples of resolve in a Sentence
The brothers finally resolved their conflict.
The issue of the book's authorship was never resolved.
His speech did nothing to resolve doubts about the company's future.
They haven't been able to resolve their differences.
She resolved to quit smoking.
He resolved that he would start dating again.
The committee resolved to override the veto.
Origin and Etymology of resolve
Middle English, from Latin resolvere to unloose, dissolve, from re- + solvere to loosen, release — more at solve
Synonym Discussion of resolve
resolve
Definition of resolve
1 : fixity of purpose : resoluteness
2 : something that is resolved
3 : a legal or official determination; especially : a formal resolution
Examples of resolve in a Sentence
His comments were intended to weaken her resolve but they only served to strengthen it.
a naval pilot who has been unwavering in his resolve to become an astronaut
First Known Use of resolve
1591
RESOLVE Defined for English Language Learners
resolve
playDefinition of resolve for English Language Learners
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: to find an answer or solution to (something) : to settle or solve (something)
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: to make a definite and serious decision to do something
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: to make a formal decision about something usually by a vote
resolve
Definition of resolve for English Language Learners
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: a strong determination to do something
RESOLVE Defined for Kids
Medical Dictionary
resolve
playMedical Definition of resolve
resolved
;resolving
1
transitive verb
: to separate (a racemic compound or mixture) into the two components2: to cause resolution of (as inflammation)
3: to distinguish between or make independently visible adjacent parts of
1
intransitive verb
: to become separated into component parts; also : to become reduced by dissolving or analysis2: to undergo resolution—used especially of disease or inflammation
Law Dictionary
Legal Definition of resolve
resolved
resolving
transitive verb
1 : to deal with successfully : clear up resolve a dispute
2a : to declare or decide by formal resolution and vote b : to change by resolution or formal vote the house resolved itself into a committee
intransitive verb
: to form a resolution
resolve
Legal Definition of resolve
1 : something that is resolved
2 : a legal or official determination; especially : a legislative declaration
Learn More about resolve
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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for resolve Spanish Central: Translation of resolve Nglish: Translation of resolve for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of resolve for Arabic speakers
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