# devolve

/dɪˈvɑɫv/ (US) · /dɪvˈɒlv/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/devolve
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

to pass power or responsibility from a central authority to a local group. It can also mean to become worse or less important over time.

For teachers: to transfer power or responsibility from a central authority to a local or subordinate body; to pass down in a hereditary line. In a negative sense, it describes a process of deterioration or a return to a primitive state.

## Examples

- The government decided to devolve more power to the local councils.
- After the central government devolved control over education, each city began developing its own unique curriculum.
- The once-thriving port city began to devolve into a series of isolated fishing villages as the main trade routes shifted further south.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.