an·swer ( P ) Pronunciation Key (nsr)
n.
A spoken or written reply, as to a question.
A correct reply.
A solution, as to a problem.
A correct solution.
An act in retaliation or response: Our only possible answer was to sue.
Something markedly similar to another of the same class: cable TV's answer to the commercial networks' sportscasts.
Law. A defendant's defense against charges.
v. an·swered, an·swer·ing, an·swers
v. intr.
To speak, write, or act as a return, as to a question.
To be liable or accountable: You must answer for your actions.
To serve the purpose; suffice: “Often I do use three words where one would answer” (Mark Twain).
To correspond; match: I found a dog answering to that description.
v. tr.
To speak, write, or act as a return to; respond to.
To respond correctly to.
To fulfill the demands or needs of; serve: “My fortune has answered my desires” (Isaak Walton).
To conform or correspond to: The suspect answers the description given by the police.