solvent Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a liquid substance capable of dissolving other substances
    dissolver; dissolving agent; resolvent; dissolvent.
    • the solvent does not change its state in forming a solution
  2. noun a statement that solves a problem or explains how to solve the problem
    answer; resolution; solution; result.
    • 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
  3. adjective capable of meeting financial obligations

WordNet

Sol"vent adjective
Etymology
L. solvens, p.pr. of solvere. See Solvable.
Definitions
  1. Having the power of dissolving; dissolving; as, a solvent fluid. "the solvent body." Boyle.
  2. Able or sufficient to pay all just debts; as, a solvent merchant; the estate is solvent.
Sol"vent noun
Definitions
  1. (Chem.) A substance (usually liquid) suitable for, or employed in, solution, or in dissolving something; as, water is the appropriate solvent of most salts, alcohol of resins, ether of fats, and mercury or acids of metal, etc.
  2. That which resolves; as, a solvent of mystery.

Webster 1913