to find the correct answer or explanation for a problem, puzzle, or difficult situation
The detective finally solved the mystery and arrested the thief.
After hours of thinking, Nina solved the tricky crossword puzzle.
✦ from Latin solvere “loosen, untie, solve”
to calculate the value of an unknown in an equation or formula so that the statement becomes true
In algebra class, Sam solved for x and wrote the answer on the screen.
The software instantly solves complex equations that would take hours by hand.
✦ specialized use of the general verb “solve” in mathematics since the 17th century
to find an answer or settle a problem, question, or disagreement
The customer service team worked quickly to resolve the complaint.
A mediator helped the two neighbors resolve their argument about the fence line.
✦ From Latin resolvere “to loosen, untie, solve,” from re- “again” + solvere “to loosen.”
to decide firmly and seriously to do something
At the start of the new year, Maria resolved to exercise three times a week.
He resolved that he would finish the novel no matter how long it took.
✦ Same origin as Sense 1: Latin resolvere “to loosen, untie,” later “to come to a firm decision.”
to mix completely with a liquid and become part of it, or to make a solid substance do this.
Sugar dissolves quickly in hot water.
Dissolve the tablet under your tongue.
✦ From Latin dissolvere 'to loosen', from dis- 'apart' + solvere 'to loosen'.
to officially end or break up an organization, marriage, or business partnership.
Parliament will be dissolved next month.
They dissolved their business partnership after ten years.
a gradual change from one picture in a film or video to the next, where one fades out as the other fades in.
Use a dissolve between the two scenes.
The dissolve created a smooth effect.
✦ From Latin dissolvere 'to loosen', from dis- 'apart' + solvere 'to loosen'; cinematic sense from 1920s.
