verb
solve
solv
verb
1
To find the answer to a problem, puzzle, or question.
"It took her all afternoon to solve the crossword."
"Detectives solved the case within a week."
2
To find the values that satisfy a mathematical equation.
"Solve for x in the equation below."
How to Use Solve
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo work out the answer to something, whether it's a mystery, a puzzle, or a maths problem.
Common pairings
solve a problem
solve a crime
solve for x
solve a mystery
Word Forms
solved past tense, solves plural, solves singular
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It took her all afternoon to _____ the crossword.
Etymology
From Latin solvō, "to loosen, unbind" — the sense shifted to "work out an answer".