definitions

evolve

[ ih-volv ]
/ ɪˈvɒlv /
|

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.

RELATED CONTENT

8 Terms For Fashions Gone ExtinctThe opulent fashions of the Edwardian era were topped off by wide-brimmed, elaborately decorated hats known as Merry Widows.
READ MORE
What does ⚓️ - Anchor Emoji mean?Read more in this article about some frequently asked questions and fun facts related to our definitions.
READ MORE

Nearby words

evolutionary fitness, evolutionary medicine, evolutionary psychology, evolutionist, evolutive, evolve, evonymus, evoo, evora, evtushenko, evulse

Origin of evolve

1635–45; < Latin ēvolvere to unroll, open, unfold, equivalent to ē- e-1 + volvere to roll, turn

Related forms

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for evolver

  • We 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

  • This 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 Jackson

  • We p. xxiiihold in this case to our old idea, and say—If there be evolution, there must be an evolver.

    Westminster Sermons|Charles Kingsley

British Dictionary definitions for evolver

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

evolvable, adjectiveevolvement, nounevolver, noun

Word 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 Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Science definitions for evolver

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.