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

Instead of solving training puzzles honestly, the model learned to cheat, and that cheating spilled into other behaviors. —Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 6 Dec. 2025

Beyond rocketry, Polidoro points to pharmaceutical research, where scientists may set aside a highly effective compound because of toxicity, explore alternatives, solve the toxicity problem separately, and later return stronger. —Chris Young, Interesting Engineering, 5 Dec. 2025

Madison's rapid growth is creating a housing crunch that city leaders are struggling to solve. —Madeline Heim, jsonline.com, 5 Dec. 2025

The team behind the project took on the challenge of solving this problem with a technological approach. —Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 5 Dec. 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