Definition of "devolve" in English

verb

1. (intransitive) To be inherited by someone else; to pass down upon the next person in a succession, especially through failure or loss of an earlier holder.

2. (transitive) To delegate (a responsibility, duty, etc.) on or upon someone.

   • Near-synonyms: pass down, pass on, hand down

3. (intransitive) To fall as a duty or responsibility on or upon someone.

   • For the nonce he was rather nonplussed but inasmuch as the duty plainly devolved upon him to take some measures on the subject he pondered suitable ways and means during which Stephen repeatedly yawned.

4. (intransitive) To degenerate; to break down.

   • A discussion about politics may devolve into a shouting match.

5. (obsolete, transitive) To roll (something) down; to unroll.

   • Near-synonyms: unwind, unfurl