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

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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.
Mice on semaglutide explored more, balanced longer on a rotating rod, ran farther on a treadmill and solved a maze faster—gains that held even after the researchers accounted for the animals just being leaner than their peers. — Jacek Krywko, Scientific American, 2 Sep. 2026 The expansion centers on solving a material science barrier that stalled liquid-metal reactors for decades. — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 2 Sep. 2026 In her detective series, under the pen name Amanda Cross, an English professor solves murders whose motives include bad psychoanalysis, student riots, and biographers who know too much for their own good. — Merve Emre, New Yorker, 2 Sep. 2026 Supporters say the technology allows police to locate vehicles involved in crimes and has been used to solve cases ranging from murder to bike theft. — Daniel Lempres, Sacbee.com, 2 Sep. 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 4 Sep. 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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