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

The North Koreans will then trick victims to install the malware under the guise of completing a computer coding test or troubleshooting an error in an online video call. — Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 18 Sep. 2026

Gas, reflux, growth spurts and other sources of discomfort can mean significantly more soothing and troubleshooting throughout the night. — Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 14 Sep. 2026

The same approach works when adjusting network settings or troubleshooting a particular device. — Matthew Kayser, Ascend Agency, 10 Sep. 2026

As for Des Moines customers around the Drake neighborhood, MidAmerican crews are troubleshooting a circuit outage affecting 1,100 people. — Kate Kealey, Des Moines Register, 9 Sep. 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