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

System integration for strategic objectives Executives from both organizations stated that cell capacity alone cannot solve the challenges of electric aviation, as flight requires specific system integration, safety profiles, and weight reduction. —Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 20 June 2026

The twentieth century built elaborate corporate governance machinery to solve the principal-agent problem. —Mary Johnstone-Louis, Forbes.com, 20 June 2026

One month later, software developer Colin Sanders solved the puzzle, bringing to an end the wildly successful marketing saga, and a month of continuous engagement and media coverage. —Danielle Directo-Meston, HollywoodReporter, 20 June 2026

Al-Anon taught me to stop trying to solve my boyfriend’s problems. —Sarah Miller, New Yorker, 20 June 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