devolve
verb (used with object)
to transfer or delegate (a duty, responsibility, etc.) to or upon another; pass on.
have devolved
-
present perfectof devolve.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.
He has expressed disdain for previous U.S. wars abroad that have devolved into quagmires, promising that the country wouldn’t get bogged down in such conflicts under his leadership.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 15, 2026
The gleaming city is one of the most infamous of the hubs thriving in Myanmar's border regions, which have devolved into hives of black market activity since a civil war consumed the country in 2021.
From Barron's ● Nov. 12, 2025
Spring games, in recent years, have devolved into a product that was barely more than a televised practice.
From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 27, 2025
The former UK health secretary, Matt Hancock told Lady Hallett he did not think it logical to have devolved powers handling communicable diseases.
From BBC ● Jan. 15, 2024
Mrs. Dormer-Smith was of opinion that had there been a Viscountess Castlecombe, the office would properly have devolved on her ladyship; but old Lord Castlecombe had been a widower for many years.
From That Unfortunate Marriage, Vol. 1 by Frances Eleanor Trollope
