Answer

/ˈæn.sər/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A response to a question or request.

She gave a thoughtful answer to the complicated question.

A solution to a problem or puzzle.

The answer to the math problem was surprisingly simple.

A statement that indicates agreement or acceptance.

His answer to the proposal was a firm yes.

verb

To respond to a question or request.

Please answer the phone; it might be important.

To provide a solution or explanation.

She could not answer the mystery of the missing keys.

To react to a situation or challenge.

He will need to answer the competition with a better strategy.

From Old English 'andswaru', where 'and-' means 'against' and 'swaru' means 'to speak'.

the answer to your prayers

A solution or resolution that resolves a need or desire.

answer someone back

To respond to someone, often in a defensive or challenging manner.

answer the call

To respond to a phone call or request.

respond

To give a reply or answer.

question

A sentence or phrase used to ask for information.

solution

A means of solving a problem or dealing with a situation.

What you say when you give a solution quickly.

Just give me the answer, I don't want to think about this anymore!

A new or surprising piece of information that resolves a long-standing mystery.

That was the answer we needed to finish the project!