re-

back, again; restoration or reversal

Forms

re-
red- — An early Latin form used before vowels and h.

Origin

Its ancestry before Latin is uncertain.

Note

In some old compounds the prefix adds emphasis, while in others its separate contribution has become unclear.

212 / 284

verb / noun

resolve

ri-ZAHLV/rɪˈzɑːlv/

To settle a matter through a definite decision.

The woman resolves the puzzle by deciding where its final piece belongs.

A woman settles a tabletop puzzle by fitting its final interlocking piece into the single remaining gap, completing a continuous picture.

Etymology

reLatinback, again; restoration or reversal

+solveLatinloosen or release

Loosening and separating into components supplied an image for mental analysis: reducing a problem to its basic forms. From deciding after such analysis came the senses of making a firm decision and settling a dispute.

In context

Courtroom Chronicles1:58

Sometimes parties can settle out of court or try mediation to resolve the issue faster and with less stress.

How Can You Get To Court If You Have A Summons? - Courtroom Chronicles

More examples

We resolved the scheduling conflict by moving the meeting.
She resolves to speak honestly about what happened.
Despite the setbacks, his resolve to finish remains strong.

Forms

resolve · resolves · resolved · resolving

resolution noun — A firm decision or settlement of a dispute.

resolute adjective — Firmly determined to follow a chosen course.

Similar words

settle: Emphasizes ending a dispute, often through agreement or compromise.
solve: Emphasizes finding an answer rather than making a decision.
determination: Names firmness of purpose, not the act of settling matters.