Answer means to respond to a question or problem. When your teacher asks what 7 times 8 equals, and you say “56,” you're answering the question. When someone knocks on your door and you open it, you're answering the door. When your phone rings and you pick it up, you're answering the phone.

An answer can also be the solution itself. The answer to a math problem is the number or result you calculate. The answer to a riddle is the clever solution that makes you say “oh!” when you finally figure it out. Scientists spend years searching for answers to questions about how the universe works.

Sometimes people use this word to describe taking responsibility or facing consequences. When you answer for your actions, you accept the results of what you've done. A captain answers to the ship's owner, meaning the owner has authority and the captain must explain their decisions.