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 context an engineer had while building a feature doesn’t travel cleanly to the person troubleshooting it in the field six months later. — Yu Fang, Forbes.com, 29 Sep. 2026

If not, call an appliance repair pro to troubleshoot and fix the cause behind the dryer overheating. — Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Sep. 2026

Mechanics are learning new technology, safety procedures, and troubleshooting protocols. — Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 23 Sep. 2026

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

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