# evolve

/iˈvɑɫv/ (US) · /ɪvˈɒlv/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/evolve
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. to develop gradually

verb · CEFR B2

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

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

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

### 2. biological evolution

verb · CEFR B2 · Academic

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

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

- Scientists believe that birds evolved from small feathered dinosaurs.
- 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).

### 3. to release gas

verb · CEFR C2 · Technical

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

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

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

## Examples

- The small family business evolved into a global company.
- Scientists study how certain bird species evolved different beak shapes to survive in their specific environments.
- The legal framework has evolved significantly over the last century, moving away from rigid traditionalism toward a more flexible interpretation of individual rights.

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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.