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.
Definition of devolve verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.
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 definition: to transfer or delegate (a duty, responsibility, etc.) to or upon another; pass on. See examples of devolve used in a sentence.
DEVOLVE definition: 1. to (cause power or responsibility to) be given to other people: 2. to (cause power or…. Learn more.
- 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 become simpler or disappear, esp. in the process of evolution. de volve′ment, n.
If you devolve power, authority, or responsibility to a less powerful person or group, or if it devolves upon them, it is transferred to them. ...the need to decentralize and devolve power to regional governments.
devolve (third-person singular simple present devolves, present participle devolving, simple past and past participle devolved) (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. [from 16th c.]
Community leaders hope that the new government will devolve more power to/on/upon the community itself. Responsibility has devolved to/upon the individual teachers.