evolve
[ ih-volv ]
/ ɪˈvɒlv /
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verb (used with object), e·volved, e·volv·ing.
to develop gradually: to evolve a scheme.
to give off or emit, as odors or vapors.
verb (used without object), e·volved, e·volv·ing.
to come forth gradually into being; develop; undergo evolution: The whole idea evolved from a casual remark.
to gradually change one's opinions or beliefs: candidates who are still evolving on the issue; an evolved feminist mom.
Biology. to develop by a process of evolution to a different adaptive state or condition: The human species evolved from an ancestor that was probably arboreal.
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Origin of evolve
OTHER WORDS FROM evolve
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2022
How to use evolve in a sentence
In short, evolution requires a previous Evolver; since it cannot have been going on for ever, and it cannot have started itself.
The Truth of Christianity|William Harry TurtonWe p. xxiiihold in this case to our old idea, and say—If there be evolution, there must be an evolver.
Westminster Sermons|Charles KingsleyThis mode of popular speech reached the climax of absurdity when it was gravely argued that "Evolution implies an Evolver."
The Philosophy of Natural Theology|William JacksonWe hold in this case to our old idea, and say: If there be evolution, there must be an evolver.
Scientific Essays and Lectures|Charles Kingsley
British Dictionary definitions for evolve
evolve
/ (ɪˈvɒlv) /
verb
to develop or cause to develop gradually
(intr) (of animal or plant species) to undergo evolution
(tr) to yield, emit, or give off (heat, gas, vapour, etc)
Derived forms of evolve
evolvable, adjectiveevolvement, nounevolver, nounWord Origin for evolve
C17: from Latin ēvolvere to unfold, from volvere to roll
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
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Scientific definitions for evolve
evolve
[ ĭ-vŏlv′ ]
To undergo biological evolution, as in the development of new species or new traits within a species.
To develop a characteristic through the process of evolution.
To undergo change and development, as the structures of the universe.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary
Copyright © 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.