The meaning of DEVOLVE is to pass on (something, such as responsibility, rights, or powers) from one person or entity to another. How to use devolve in a sentence.

Phrasal verb devolve something to someone (Definition of devolve from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus © Cambridge University Press)

DEVOLVE definition: to transfer or delegate (a duty, responsibility, etc.) to or upon another; pass on. See examples of devolve used in a sentence.

1. to transfer or delegate (a duty, responsibility, etc.) to or upon another; pass on. 2. to be transferred or passed on from one to another: The responsibility devolved on me. 3. to …

Dec 18, 2025 · Despite being a unitary state, the Government of the United Kingdom devolved many matters to the Governments of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. They devolved …

There are 18 meanings listed in OED's entry for the verb devolve, nine of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

devolve - WordReference English dictionary, questions, discussion and forums. All Free.

DEVOLVE meaning: 1 : to gradually go from an advanced state to a less advanced state; 2 : to pass (responsibility, power, etc.) from one person or group to another person or group at a …

To be passed on or transferred to another: The burden of proof devolved upon the defendant. The estate devolved to an unlikely heir. 2. To degenerate or deteriorate gradually: After several …

When things devolve, they deteriorate, degenerate, fall apart, go to the dogs, and generally end up worse. When a classroom gets loud and rowdy, a teacher might say the class has devolved.