devolve
verb (used with object)
to transfer or delegate (a duty, responsibility, etc.) to or upon another; pass on.
devolves
-
present tense formof devolve (3rd person singular).present tense
Used to describe things happening now or regularly.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Mrs. Irani’s advice is well-meaning and even inspirational, but sometimes she devolves into cliché and therapy-speak.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 10, 2026
Her first date with Henry quickly devolves into a living nightmare — and not just the kind where you find out that the person sitting across from you is, like, really into deadlifting.
From Salon ● Apr. 12, 2025
Here’s the key: What begins as a straightforward questioning of ship pilot John Blackthorne devolves into chaos as the foreigner challenges the priest translating for them.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 20, 2024
The hope continues to be that the job market slows its growth but not by so much that it devolves into widespread layoffs.
From Seattle Times ● Jun. 5, 2024
Her breathing devolves into trains of oceanic coughs.
From "All the Light We Cannot See" by Anthony Doerr
