Origin: Latin suffix -tion
Solution has 7 different meanings across 1 category:
a homogeneous mixture of two or more substances; frequently (but not necessarily) a liquid solution
"he used a solution of peroxide and water"
a statement that solves a problem or explains how to solve the problem
"they were trying to find a peaceful solution"
"the answers were in the back of the book"
"he computed the result to four decimal places"
A homogeneous mixture, which may be liquid, gas or solid, formed by dissolving one or more substances.
"The clear glass of iced tea was a perfect solution where sugar completely dissolved into the water and ice."
In plain English: A solution is a way to fix a problem or answer a question.
"Adding a little lemon to the water was the perfect solution to get rid of the bad taste."
To treat with a solution.
"The doctor advised me to soak my swollen ankle in warm saltwater solution for twenty minutes each day."
In plain English: To solve something means to find an answer or fix a problem.
"The chemist added water to find a solution for the dry mixture."
Usage: Use this verb form specifically when describing the act of treating something, such as fabric or skin, by applying a liquid mixture to it. It is distinct from using nouns like "solve," which refers to finding answers rather than physical treatment.
The word "solution" entered English via Middle English and Old French from the Latin solūtio, which originally referred to an act of loosening or untying. This root is related to the modern verb "solve," reflecting its original sense of resolving a problem by untangling it.