devolve
verb (used with object)
to transfer or delegate (a duty, responsibility, etc.) to or upon another; pass on.
had devolved
-
past perfectof devolve.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
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.
By 2013, then-Macy’s Plaza had devolved into a dated, downscale relic that got little love despite its location near offices, hotels and a busy subway interchanget.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 7, 2026
Apple, by contrast, had devolved into a catch-all bin of ill-conceived product offerings driven by obsolete software.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 17, 2026
The UK has had devolved governments since the late 1990s, which work alongside the Westminster Parliament.
From BBC ● Apr. 21, 2026
It was assumed to mean that the discussion had devolved into absurdity and should be abandoned when that happens.
From Salon ● Dec. 18, 2023
The race had devolved into a series of low blows.
From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama
