solver

Everyday

1. A solver is a person who solves something, like a problem, puzzle or crime: a problem solver. tree →
2. In computing and maths, a solver is a program that finds answers to equations or puzzles. tree →

In the lessons

School: «a good problem solver» tries different ways, checks answers and does not give up; teachers praise this in maths. Puzzles: crossword and Sudoku solvers. Computing: an online solver can work out an equation, but you still need to understand the steps.

Examples

• She is a brilliant problem solver. tree →
• Crossword solvers enjoy tricky clues. tree →
• The fastest solver of the Rubik's cube won a prize. tree →
• Our class practised being good maths solvers. tree →
• The computer solver found the answer in one second. tree →
• A good solver checks their answer at the end. tree →
• The detective was a famous solver of mysteries. tree →

Note

Countable. From «solve» + r (solve drops nothing, just adds -r). Common phrase: «problem solver», «problem-solving» (with hyphen when used before a noun: problem-solving skills).