Devolve

/dɪˈvɒɫv/ · verb

Meaning

(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..

Definitions by Sense

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.
3. (intransitive) To fall as a duty or responsibility on or upon someone.
4. (intransitive) To degenerate; to break down.
5. (obsolete, transitive) To roll (something) down; to unroll.

Example Sentences

an accident […] rendered him permanently lame, and therefore unfitted him, in the opinion of his parents, to inherit his father's many titles, which, it was then arranged, should devolve upon his younger brother.

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

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.

A discussion about politics may devolve into a shouting match.

Near-synonyms: unwind, unfurl

every headlong stream / Devolves its winding waters to the main.

He spake of virtue […] And with […] a lack-lustre dead-blue eye, Devolved his rounded periods.

Synonyms for devolve

Antonyms for devolve

Related Words

Word Forms

• devolves
• devolving
• devolved

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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