noun
A response or reply; something said or done in reaction to a statement or question.
Her answer to his proposal was a slap in the face.
When a student types a complex question into a chatbot, they get a polished (though not necessarily authentic, accurate or nuanced) answer in seconds.
A solution to a problem.
There is no simple answer to corruption.
Violence is not the answer to disagreements.
Someone or something that fills a similar role or position.
Anti-pornography crusader Mary Whitehouse, who successfully brought London's Gay News to trial recently on charges of "blasphemy," is emerging as England's answer to Anita Bryant.
A document filed in response to a complaint, responding to each point raised in the complaint and raising counterpoints.
verb
To make a reply or response to.
She answers him as if she knew his mind:
[…] there was no voice, nor any that answered.
To speak in defence against; to reply to in defence.
to answer a charge or accusation
To respond to a call by someone at a door or telephone, or other similar piece of equipment.
She answered the door.
Nobody answered when I knocked on the door.
To suit a need or purpose satisfactorily.
It answers the need.
Mr. Knightley had done all in his power for Mr. Woodhouse’s entertainment. Books of engravings, drawers of medals, cameos, corals, shells, and every other family collection within his cabinets, had been prepared for his old friend, to while away the morning; and the kindness had perfectly answered.
To be accountable or responsible; to make amends.
The man must answer to his employer for the money entrusted to his care.
He has a lot to answer for.