1

obsolete : dissolve, melt

2

a : break up, separate <the prism resolved the light into a play of color>; also : to change by disintegration

b : to reduce by analysis <resolve the problem into simple elements>

c : to distinguish between or make independently visible adjacent parts of

d : to separate (a racemic compound or mixture) into the two components

3

: to cause resolution of (a pathological state)

4

a : to deal with successfully : clear up <resolve doubts><resolve a dispute>

b : to find an answer to

c : to make clear or understandable

d : to find a mathematical solution of

e : to split up (as a vector) into two or more components especially in assigned directions

5

: to reach a firm decision about <resolve to get more sleep><resolve disputed points in a text>

6

a : to declare or decide by a formal resolution and vote

b : to change by resolution or formal vote <the houseresolved itself into a committee>

7

: to make (as voice parts) progress from dissonance to consonance

8

: to work out the resolution of (as a play)

1

: to become separated into component parts; also : to become reduced by dissolving or analysis

2

: to form a resolution : determine

3

: consult, deliberate

4

: to progress from dissonance to consonance

— re·solv·able  adjective

— re·solv·er noun

1. The brothers finally resolved their conflict.
2. The issue of the book’s authorship was never resolved.
3. His speech did nothing to resolve doubts about the company’s future.
4. They haven’t been able to resolve their differences.
5. She resolved to quit smoking.
6. He resolved that he would start dating again.
7. The committee resolved to override the veto.

Middle English, from Latin resolvere to unloose, dissolve, from re- + solvere to loosen, release — more at solve

1

: fixity of purpose : resoluteness

2

: something that is resolved

3

: a legal or official determination; especially : a formalresolution

1. His comments were intended to weaken her resolve but they only served to strengthen it.
2. <a naval pilot who has been unwavering in his resolve to become an astronaut>

1591

1

: to separate (a racemic compound or mixture) into the two components

2

: to cause resolution of (as inflammation)

3

: to distinguish between or make independently visible adjacent parts of

1

: to become separated into component parts; also : to become reduced by dissolving or analysis

2

: to undergo resolution—used especially of disease or inflammation

—re·solv·able  adjective

“RESOLVED”