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 TV receivers

troubleshoot a problem

Examples of troubleshoot in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Their familiarity with technology enhances their ability to troubleshoot electronic voting equipment — a crucial skill as elections become increasingly digitized. —Dr. Rachael V. Cobb, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2025

Given their long-standing reputations and deep knowledge of the industry, both execs are well positioned to troubleshoot issues anywhere – whether remotely or on set – ensuring flow and leveraging their strong connections with former colleagues. —Anna Marie De La Fuente, Variety, 23 July 2025

An engineer might briefly describe the job to be completed — for instance, updating a firewall, installing an update to fix a bug or reviewing logs to troubleshoot a problem. —Renee Dudley, ProPublica, 18 July 2025

Big bets are being made on the engine room Effective ad operations teams are critical for the success of your digital advertising, particularly those who painstakingly sift through technical documentation to troubleshoot complex issues or implement new features. —Google Ads, Forbes.com, 29 July 2025

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