What does answer mean?
An answer is a reply or solution offered in response to a question, request, or problem. It functions both as a noun — the content of the response itself — and as a verb describing the act of responding. In everyday use, answers range from simple factual replies ('the answer is seven') to complex solutions in mathematics, law, or philosophy. The word also carries a sense of responsibility: to 'answer for' something is to be held accountable for it, while 'answering the door' or 'answering the phone' reflects a social expectation of responsiveness. Derived from Old English 'andswaru', meaning a solemn declaration made in return, the word has long been tied to the idea of giving something back when called upon. Its versatility across spoken conversation, written correspondence, and problem-solving makes it one of the most fundamental words in English communication.
A thing said, written, or done in response to a question, request, letter, or situation; also, a solution to a problem.
"Her answer to the riddle surprised everyone in the room."
In mathematics and puzzles, 'answer' often refers specifically to the solution or result.
To say or write something in return; to react satisfactorily to a question, request, or call.
"I called out her name, and she answered from upstairs."
'Answer for' means to accept responsibility or be held accountable; 'answer to' means to be subordinate to or identifiable by a name or description.
Standard plural used when referring to multiple replies or solutions.
"The teacher collected all the students' answers at the end of the test."
The word 'answer' traces back over a thousand years to Old English 'andswaru' — literally a 'swearing against' something, meaning it originally carried the sense of making a solemn declaration in return.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of answer
The word 'answer' derives from Old English 'andswaru', meaning a sworn statement or declaration made in return, which itself comes from Proto-Germanic '*andswarō'. The root is related to the verb 'swear', sharing the ancient Germanic sense of speaking back or declaring against something. Over time the meaning broadened from solemn verbal responses to include any reply or solution. Cognate forms appear across Germanic languages, such as Old Norse 'svar' and modern Swedish 'svar'.
Related word forms
How answer is actually used
Common in both formal and informal registers. As a verb, 'to answer' can imply obligation ('answer the door') or accountability ('answer for one's actions'). In British English, 'answer back' carries a connotation of rudeness toward authority.
Easily confused with answer
A reply is a response to a message or communication specifically, while answer is broader — it can also mean a solution to a problem or a response to a question.
A response is any reaction or feedback, whereas an answer typically implies a direct resolution or correct information in return for a question.