devolve
verb (used with object)
to transfer or delegate (a duty, responsibility, etc.) to or upon another; pass on.
has devolved
-
present perfectof devolve (3rd person singular).present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
What is really the world’s oldest profession has devolved from pitching ethical monotheism to getting free merch.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 13, 2026
The Scottish government has devolved powers relating to public spending, with the income generated by the higher tax revenue used, in part, to fund public services.
From BBC ● May 5, 2026
But it has devolved into the worst sort of public spectacle; reporters sucking up to politicians and celebrities for greater access — a chance to be part of a crowd they’ll never join.
From Salon ● Apr. 24, 2026
The Walt Disney Co.’s proposal for a partial, temporary detente as the blackout of its channels on DirecTV and U-Verse stretches into its 10th day has devolved into another round of bickering.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 10, 2024
A duty devolves upon me which is perhaps greater than that which has devolved upon any other man since the days of Washington.
From The Wonders of Prayer A Record of Well Authenticated and Wonderful Answers to Prayer by D. W. (Daniel Webster) Whittle
