solve
verbnouncommon in dialogue
- United Kingdom//sɒlv//
- United Kingdom/[sɔɫv] ~(l-vocalization)[sɔʊ̯v]/
- Scotland//sɔlv//
- //sɑlv//
To find an answer or solution to a problem or question; to work out.
verb
- 1
To find an answer or solution to a problem or question; to work out.
True piety would effectually solve such scruples.
God shall solve the dark decrees of fate.
A “moving platform” scheme[…]is more technologically ambitious than maglev trains even though it relies on conventional rails. Local trains would use side-by-side rails to roll alongside intercity trains and allow passengers to switch trains by stepping through docking bays. This set-up solves several problems […].
- 2
to find out the perpetrator, the motive etc (of crime)
to solve a murder to solve a crime
- 3
To find the values of variables that satisfy a system of equations and/or inequalities.
- 4
To algebraically manipulate an equation or inequality into a form that isolates a chosen variable on one side, so that the other side consists of an expression that may be used to generate solutions.
- 5
To loosen or separate the parts of.
- 6
archaicTo loosen or separate the parts of. To dissolve
Etymology
From Middle English solven, from Latin solvō.
noun
- 1
archaicA solution; an explanation.
The solve is this, that thou dost common grow.
KEVIN: I decided a long time ago that just because I love Raymond, doesn't mean I have to love the people he works with. Good solve, Detective.
“Hey, Mr. Quilt Bandit.” Ian smiled. “Nice solve, Nancy Drew.”
Forms
- plural
- solves
- past tense
- solved
- past participle
- solved
- present participle
- solving
- third person singular
- solves
solve · To find an answer or solution to a problem or question; to work out.
solved · Having a solution, having been explained or answered.some · A certain number (multiple but not all).somebody · Some unspecified person.