solve

[ solv ]

verb (used with object)

, solved, solv·ing.

1. to find the answer or explanation for; clear up; explain:

   to solve the mystery of the missing books.

   Synonyms: crack, untangle, unravel, resolve

2. to work out the answer or solution to (a mathematical problem).

solve

/ sɒlv /

verb

1. to find the explanation for or solution to (a mystery, problem, etc)
2. maths
   1. to work out the answer to (a problem)
   2. to obtain the roots of (an equation)

Derived Forms

• ˈsolver, noun

Other Words From

• solver noun
• pre·solve verb (used with object) presolved presolving
• un·solved adjective
• well-solved adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of solve¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English solven, from Latin solvere “to loosen, free, release”

Word History and Origins

Origin of solve¹

C15: from Latin solvere to loosen, release, free from debt

Example Sentences

Measure A can’t solve all those problems, but it is expected to generate $1 billion a year, for goodness’ sake.

From Los Angeles Times

The secondary school and sixth form said it would be working with its provider to try and solve the problem, but would be unable to open until it was fixed.

From BBC

Like many TV shows aimed at the under 10 demographic, “Carl” features adorable animated animals who work together to solve problems and learn valuable life lessons.

From Los Angeles Times

When asked by an analyst about Spotify’s scale, reach and engagement being smaller than YouTube’s, Spotify Chief Executive Daniel Ek said on an earnings call on Tuesday that “people make it out to be the winner-takes-all dynamic in that there’s only one player that can solve all of it,” but what creators want is to be on multiple platforms.

From Los Angeles Times

Apple’s AI researchers gave these AI systems a simple arithmetic problem that schoolkids can solve.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• clarify
• clear up
• deal with
• decide
• determine
• do
• explain
• figure out
• fix
• have
• iron out
• settle
• work out