Answering Word Meaning

Old English andswaru (noun), andswarian (verb), of Germanic origin; from a base shared by swear

say or write something as a reaction to someone or something

say or write in response

• ‘Of course I can,’ she answered
• she answered that she would take nothing but the ring
• she tried to answer his questions truthfully
• Steve was about to answer, but Hazel spoke first

act in reaction to (a sound such as a phone ringing or a knock or ring on a door)

act in reaction to

• Digby answered the door
• she rang Edward's house, hoping the housekeeper would answer

defend oneself against (a charge, accusation, or criticism)

defend oneself against

• he said he would return to Spain to answer all charges

be suitable for fulfilling (a need); satisfy

be suitable for

• entrepreneurship is necessary to answer the needs of national and international markets