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

Along the way, David and Natarajan discuss the place of emotion in scientific research, why science alone can’t solve human problems, and the greatest space movie ever made. — David Brooks, The Atlantic, 20 Sep. 2026

They were joined by residents who, neighborhood impacts aside, didn’t want another set of toll lanes because the express lanes running up I-77 north have not solved the congestion problem up there. — Charlotte Observer, 20 Sep. 2026

Nanoscale engineering with interfacial design The research team solved this trade-off by engineering an ultra-thin scaffold. — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 20 Sep. 2026

At the Miami-Dade Democratic Party’s Blue Gala featuring statewide candidates on the November ballot, speakers addressed the shifting dynamics and emphasized that Democrats can solve the state’s most pressing issues. — Miami Herald, 20 Sep. 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