solve

1 of 2

verb

ˈsälv

ˈsȯlv

solved; solving

Synonyms of solve

transitive verb

: to find a solution, explanation, or answer for

solve a problem

solved the crime

: to pay in full

solve a debt

intransitive verb

: to solve something

substitute and solve for x

solver noun

solver

2 of 2

noun

solv·er

ˈsälvə(r),

ˈsȯlv- also ˈsä(u̇)v- or ˈsȯv-

plural -s

: one that solves

Examples of solve in a Sentence

Verb 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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Verb

From the classic ‘Whodunit’ style to thrilling neonoirs, mystery novels have compelled readers to solve cases alongside detectives like Hercule Poirot. — Theara Coleman, TheWeek, 19 Oct. 2026 Of course, balcony solar panels alone can’t solve skyrocketing utility bills or the climate crisis. — Liz Krueger, New York Daily News, 18 Oct. 2026 There are of course a whole variety of barriers to solving that problem, some structural, some constitutional, all intensely political. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 18 Oct. 2026 Separate nozzles also don't solve the problems of bonding incompatible materials or managing different printing temperatures. — New Atlas, 17 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for solve

Word History

Etymology

Verb

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

Verb

circa 1533, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler

The first known use of solve was circa 1533

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Solve.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/solve. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

solve

verb

ˈsälv

ˈsȯlv

solved; solving

: to find a solution for

solve a puzzle

solve

verb

noun

Synonyms of solve

Examples of solve in a Sentence

Word History

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Kids Definition

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solve

verb

noun

Synonyms of solve

Examples of solve in a Sentence

Word History

Rhymes for solve

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Kids Definition

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