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

For years, someone relied on them to make the decision, solve the problem, calm the client, or notice what everyone else had overlooked. — Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 5 Aug. 2026

Now, researchers at the Shibaura Institute of Technology in Japan have developed a cheap, platinum-free catalyst that solves a major roadblock for high-energy lithium–oxygen batteries. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 5 Aug. 2026

His passions lie in using AI to solve scientific puzzles, like curing diseases and discovering new materials, and in ensuring that AI doesn’t accidentally cause catastrophic harm to humanity. — Reed Albergotti, semafor.com, 5 Aug. 2026

In my sessions, every participant has to build a tool or agent that solves a real problem, then demo it to the room. — Will Drover, Fortune, 5 Aug. 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