Solvent \Sol"vent\, n. (Chem.) A substance (usually liquid) suitable for, or employed in, solution, or in dissolving something; as, water is the appropriate solvent of most salts, alcohol of resins, ether of fats, and mercury or acids of metals, etc.

2. That which resolves; as, a solvent of mystery.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
 

Solvent \Sol"vent\ (s[o^]l"vent), a. [L. solvens, p. pr. of solvere. See Solvable.]

1. Having the power of dissolving; dissolving; as, a solvent fluid. ``the solvent body.'' --Boyle.

2. Able or sufficient to pay all just debts; as, a solvent merchant; the estate is solvent.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)