solve

[solv]

verb (used with object)

solved, solving 

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)

Other Word Forms

• solver noun
• presolve verb (used with object)
• unsolved 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

“We are more than willing to work with any city or county that wants to do its part to solve our housing crisis,” Bonta said.

From Los Angeles Times

The place itself has nothing on Mare, a woman whose determination to solve crimes and to serve and protect is really her way of hiding behind everyone else’s grief.

From Salon

Creating two teams of eight U.S. all-stars and one team of eight from other countries would solve the numbers issue.

From Los Angeles Times

The firm is not understood to be looking to cut a specific number of jobs but to solve an issue with low numbers of people leaving the banking group over time.

From BBC

Pari says she loves the different skills involved including problem solving, creativity and thinking logically.

From BBC

Related Words

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