plural solutions
1
a
: something that is used or done to deal with and end a problem : something that solves a problem
Medication may not be the best solution for the patient's condition.
The solution is simple/obvious: you need to spend less money.
—often + toThere is no simple solution to the country's drug problem.
She suggested a number of creative solutions to the housing crisis.
b
: the act of solving something
a problem that has so far resisted solution [=a problem that no one has been able to solve]
2
a
: a correct answer to a problem, puzzle, etc.
—often + to
The solutions to the math problems are in the back of the book.
I can't figure out the solution to this puzzle.
b
: an explanation for something that is difficult to understand (such as a mystery)
—often + to
The police haven't yet found a solution to this crime/mystery.
3
a
: a liquid in which something has been dissolved
She made a solution of baking soda and water.
a 40 percent saline solution
He rinsed the contact lens with saline solution.
b
: the act or process of dissolving a solid, liquid, or gas in a liquid
the solution of sucrose in water
Cite this Entry
“Solution.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/solution. Accessed 8 Apr. 2026.
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