/ sɒlv; NAmE sɑːlv/ verb [ vn ]
1.
to find a way of dealing with a problem or difficult situation :
Attempts are being made to solve the problem of waste disposal.
2.
to find the correct answer or explanation for sth :
to solve an equation / a puzzle / a riddle
to solve a crime / mystery
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WORD ORIGIN
late Middle English (in the sense loosen, dissolve, untie ): from Latin solvere loosen, unfasten.