sort out

1 of 2

verb

sorted out; sorting out; sorts out

1

: to understand or find (something, such as a reason or a solution) by thinking

I'm trying to sort out a way to do it.

2

: to find an answer or solution for (something)

He's still trying to sort out his problems.

We need to get these problems sorted out as soon as possible.

They couldn't come up with a solution and decided to wait to see whether problem sorted itself out.

3

: to solve the problems of (someone)

They're still trying to sort their son out.

I just need a little more time to sort myself out.

4

British, informal : to deal in a forceful way with (someone who is causing problems)

I told my brother they were bullying me, and he promised to sort them out (for me).

sort-out

2 of 2

noun

British

: an activity in which someone makes a room, closet, etc., neat and organized

Let's have a sort-out of the attic.

Examples of sort out in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

Due to the discomfort, my doctor ordered me to remain at home until it can be sorted out. — Ashley Hume, FOXNews.com, 7 Sep. 2026

Group of Six intrigue Boise State's early-season schedule could go a long way toward sorting out which team has the best shot at earning the Group of Six's playoff berth. — CBS News, 7 Sep. 2026

The Irish won’t face another defense as good as the Badgers’ until mid-October, so there’s time to get this sorted out. — Scott Dochterman, New York Times, 7 Sep. 2026

Lake Mead is revealing its secrets Meanwhile, as that gets sorted out and the water level continues to drop, the lake is revealing its secrets. — Bill Goodykoontz, AZCentral.com, 31 Aug. 2026

Rhymes for sort out

• about
• bailout
• blackout
• blowout
• breakout
• burnout
• buyout
• checkout
• closeout
• cutout
• devout
• dropout