evolve

e-volve · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    (Biology) To develop gradually through natural selection over successive generations.

  2. 2.

    To develop or change gradually over time.

  3. 3.

    To give off (gas or heat) during a chemical reaction.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    evolve into — to gradually become something different
  • •
    evolve over time — to change gradually through a period

Related words

Antonyms: devolve, regress, stagnate
See also: adapt, develop, evolution, evolutionary
Synonyms: advance, develop, mature, progress, transform

Etymology

From Latin "evolvere" meaning "to unroll, unfold," from "e-" (out) + "volvere" (to roll). Adopted into English in the 17th century, with the biological sense developing in the 19th century.