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 of solve

• 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

That moment is what Bensamoun built Fi—a smart collar company that tracks pets’ locations and monitors their health in real time—to solve. — Lily Mae Lazarus, Fortune, 8 July 2026

Instead, the biggest opportunity will be from practical applications that help people solve everyday problems. — Paschal Donohoe, Time, 8 July 2026

By addressing the often-unspoken need for belonging, these founders are not only solving a widespread societal problem but also tapping into a significant and growing market. — Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026

With no way to enforce this crucial boundary between trusted and untrusted sources, AI engine developers are left to erect elaborate guardrails designed to mitigate the damage rather than solve the root cause. — Dan Goodin, ArsTechnica, 8 July 2026

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