solve

verb

ˈsälv 

ˈsȯlv

solved; solving

transitive verb

1

: to find a solution, explanation, or answer for

solve a problem

solved the crime

2

: to pay in full

solve a debt

intransitive verb

: to solve something

substitute and solve for x

solver noun

Synonyms of solve

• resolve
• answer
• unravel

Examples of solve in a Sentence

They are working to solve the traffic problem.

If they'll lend us the money we need, all our problems will be solved.

He couldn't solve the math problem.

The mystery has been solved.

The FBI has been trying to solve the case for years.

Recent Examples on the Web

Stay open without pretending every detail is solved. —Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 24 May 2026

Other alternatives aim to solve problems that occur when impervious pavement prevents rainwater from soaking into the ground. —Aya Diab, Fortune, 23 May 2026

After years of rising costs, homelessness, bureaucracy, and broken promises, people have stopped expecting the government to solve problems. —Adam Miller, Daily News, 23 May 2026

This also helps solve the common problem of ensuring your pockets are empty during TSA screening. —Jillian Dara, Travel + Leisure, 23 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, to loosen, from Latin solvere to loosen, solve, dissolve, from sed-, se- apart + luere to release — more at secede, lose

First Known Use

circa 1533, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Rhymes for solve

• absolve
• devolve
• dissolve
• evolve
• involve
• resolve
• revolve

Kids Definition

solve

verb

ˈsälv 

ˈsȯlv

solved; solving

: to find a solution for

solve a puzzle