solve

verb

ˈsälv How to pronounce solve (audio)
ˈsȯlv
solved; solving
Synonyms of solve

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

Relevance
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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
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.
Unfortunately, Thursday's conflict isn't quite so easy to solve. — Amber Harding Outkick, FOXNews.com, 25 Oct. 2026 But that is only part of the challenge; just moving the cube around won’t necessarily solve it. — Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 25 Oct. 2026 Hertzberg said he’s talked to investors who may be willing to buy these bonds at cheaper rates, given the crushing issue the funding is trying to solve. — Audrey McGlinchy, Los Angeles Times, 24 Oct. 2026 A week later, however, the win-hungry Jayhawks did manage to solve Baylor’s winning ways versus KU courtesy of a thrilling 25-24 come-from-behind Homecoming Day victory over the Bears on Saturday at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. — Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 24 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for solve

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of solve was circa 1533

Rhymes for solve

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Browse Nearby Words

Solvay process
solve
solvency
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Solve.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/solve. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

solve

verb
ˈsälv How to pronounce solve (audio)
ˈsȯlv
solved; solving
: to find a solution for
solve a puzzle
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