What does resolver mean?
A resolver is someone or something that brings a disputed, difficult, or unanswered matter to a solution. People described as resolvers act as mediators, arbiters, or problem-solvers, although the term is more common in formal writing than in everyday conversation. In computing and telecommunications, a resolver is a component that performs lookup functions: a DNS resolver, for example, translates a domain name into an IP address so that a device can connect to the appropriate server. The word can therefore refer either to a person who untangles a conflict or to a mechanism that finds and supplies missing information. Its useful distinction lies in its emphasis on resolution: a resolver does more than merely identify a problem or express an opinion, but actively produces an answer, settlement, or usable result.
nounA person or thing that resolves a problem, dispute, or question. In computing, a resolver is a component that translates a name or request into an address or other required information.
- A person who settles a dispute, resolves a difficulty, or finds a solution.
- A device, program, or component that translates a name, address, or request into the information needed to locate or access something, especially in computing or telecommunications.
"The mediator acted as a resolver of the long-running dispute between the two families."
"Her calm negotiation made her an effective resolver of workplace disagreements."
"The network resolver converts the website's domain name into the numerical address of its server."
The plural is formed by adding -s.
"Several name resolvers remained active despite the network outage."
Without a name resolver, typing a familiar web address would be like asking for a friend by name without knowing which house they live in.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does resolver come from?
The word is formed in English from resolve, an Old French borrowing of Latin resolvere, meaning “to loosen, unravel, or untangle.” The agentive suffix -er was added to indicate a person or thing that performs the action of resolving. The underlying Latin root solvere, meaning “to loosen,” is also represented in English words such as solve, absolute, and dissolve.
How resolver is actually used
The general sense is now most common in formal or technical contexts. In computing and telecommunications, it is standard terminology for a component that performs name or address lookup.
Easily confused with resolver
A resolver finds an answer or settles a problem, whereas a reserver sets something aside for later use.