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

The atmosphere at the stadium has been toxic for months, but Frank’s dismissal seems to have temporarily solved that issue, which is one positive. —Jay Harris, New York Times, 23 Feb. 2026

The findings solve a 60-year-old mystery in paleontology. —Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 23 Feb. 2026

Alvarado has helped solve more than one issue for the Knicks, and on Saturday, fans cheered their new addition using the same sound profile international fans use in sports like soccer and professional fighting to cheer the hometown hero. —Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 22 Feb. 2026

This Maison de Sabré bag charm also solves the problem of forgetting your AirTag at home, while adding a bit of style to your suitcase. —Liz Provencher, Travel + Leisure, 22 Feb. 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