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

Follow the one that solves something real. —Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 17 May 2026

The gap is architectural, not a capability problem to be solved by the next training run. —Alexandra Smyth, Fortune, 16 May 2026

Building large-scale photonic computing systems will require solving difficult engineering challenges. —Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 16 May 2026

Here, the core challenge was making an elevated residential structure actually look good—something the building industry hasn't really solved. —Fred Albert, Forbes.com, 16 May 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