troubleshoot

verb

trou·​ble·​shoot ˈtrə-bəl-ˌshüt 

troubleshot ˈtrə-bəl-ˌshät  ; troubleshooting

intransitive verb

: to operate or serve as a troubleshooter

is troubleshooting for an electronics firm

transitive verb

: to investigate or deal with in the role of troubleshooter

troubleshoots computer problems

troubleshoot a problem

Examples of troubleshoot in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

That means crews can spend less time swapping between multiple bulky devices and troubleshooting lighting problems through trial and error. — Matthew Huff, Time, 15 Oct. 2026

Incorrect conclusions and hallucinations are common and can result in aggressive false positives that block legitimate, revenue-generating traffic and are difficult to troubleshoot and correct. — Carlos Morales, Forbes.com, 13 Oct. 2026

Many of us have spent years frustrated with systems that hold so much promise but routinely fail to deliver, leaving us spending weekends troubleshooting why the garage door won’t open. — Jennifer Pattison Tuohy, The Verge, 12 Oct. 2026

Virtual maintenance training for technicians The contract also includes a Virtual Maintenance Trainer designed to help technicians learn how to inspect, maintain, and troubleshoot the helicopter’s systems. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 9 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

back-formation from troubleshooter

First Known Use

1918, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense

Rhymes for troubleshoot

• absolute
• arrowroot
• attribute
• bitterroot
• constitute
• convolute
• destitute
• disrepute
• dissolute
• execute
• institute
• involute

Kids Definition

troubleshoot

verb

trou·​ble·​shoot ˈtrəb-əl-ˌshüt 

troubleshot -ˌshät  ; troubleshooting

1

: to locate trouble and make repairs (as in machinery)

2

: to find a solution to a problem or disagreement