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evolve

v.
US //iˈvɑɫv// UK //ɪvˈɒlv// evolve
  1. 1 to develop gradually (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to change or develop slowly over time into something better or more advanced.

    to undergo a gradual process of change and development, typically from a simple to a more complex or effective state.

    Example

    The small family business evolved into a global company over thirty years.

    Example

    The software has evolved from a simple text editor into a comprehensive suite of creative tools used by professionals worldwide.

    Usage

    Often used with the preposition 'from' or 'into'.
    • stagnate
    • regress
  2. 2 biological evolution (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Academic Science

    when a type of plant or animal changes over many generations to fit its environment.

    to undergo genetic change over successive generations through natural selection or other evolutionary mechanisms.

    Example

    Scientists believe that birds evolved from small feathered dinosaurs.

    Example

    Certain species of desert plants have evolved thick, waxy skins to prevent water loss in extreme heat.

    Usage

    Can be used transitively (to evolve a trait) or intransitively (the species evolved).
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  1. 3 to release gas (v.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Science

    to give off a gas or heat during a chemical reaction.

    to emit or give off a gaseous substance as a byproduct of a chemical process.

    Example

    The mixture began to evolve bubbles of carbon dioxide as it heated up.

    Example

    The reaction was monitored closely to measure the rate at which the compound evolved hydrogen gas under high pressure.

    Usage

    Usually transitive, taking the gas as a direct object.
Origin

Borrowed from Latin ēvolvō (“unroll, unfold”), from ē- (“out of”) (short form of ex) + volvō (“roll”).

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