First Known Use: circa 1533
Dictionary
solve
verb \ˈsälv, ˈsȯlv\
: to find a way to deal with and end (a problem)
: to find the correct answer to (something, such as a riddle)
: to find the correct explanation for (something, such as a mystery)
solvedsolv·ing
Full Definition of SOLVE
transitive verb
1
: to find a solution, explanation, or answer for <solve a problem> <solved the crime>
2
: to pay (as a debt) in full
intransitive verb
: to solve something <substitute and solve for x>
— solv·er noun
See solve defined for English-language learners
See solve defined for kids
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Origin of SOLVE
Related to SOLVE
- Synonyms
- answer, break, crack, dope (out), figure out, puzzle (out), resolve, riddle (out), unravel, unriddle, work, work out
Rhymes with SOLVE
SOLVE Defined for Kids
solve
verb \ˈsälv, ˈsȯlv\
solvedsolv·ing
Definition of SOLVE for Kids
: to find the answer to or a solution for <Can you solve the riddle?>
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