evolve

[ih-volv]

verb (used with object)

evolved, evolving 

1. to develop gradually.

   to evolve a scheme.

2. to give off or emit, as odors or vapors.

verb (used without object)

evolved, evolving 

1. to come forth gradually into being; develop; undergo evolution.

   The whole idea evolved from a casual remark.

2. to gradually change one's opinions or beliefs.

   candidates who are still evolving on the issue;

   an evolved feminist mom.

3. Biology.,  to develop by a process of evolution to a different adaptive state or condition.

   The human species evolved from an ancestor that was probably arboreal.

evolve

/ ɪˈvɒlv /

verb

1. to develop or cause to develop gradually

2. (intr) (of animal or plant species) to undergo evolution

3. (tr) to yield, emit, or give off (heat, gas, vapour, etc)

evolve

1. To undergo biological evolution, as in the development of new species or new traits within a species.

2. To develop a characteristic through the process of evolution.

3. To undergo change and development, as the structures of the universe.

Other Word Forms

• evolvable adjective
• evolver noun
• evolvement noun
• nonevolving adjective
• self-evolved adjective
• self-evolving adjective
• unevolved adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of evolve¹

First recorded in 1635–45; from Latin ēvolvere “to unroll, open, unfold,” equivalent to ē- e- ¹ + volvere “to roll, turn”

Word History and Origins

Origin of evolve¹

C17: from Latin ēvolvere to unfold, from volvere to roll

Example Sentences

Roger’s indignation over gentrification isn’t enough, however, to motivate him to meet a deadline on what he now considers a disingenuous, assigned piece on the “evolving” Brooklyn.

From Los Angeles Times

"In today's market, standing still is falling behind. You have to continuously evolve if you want to stay relevant to your customers."

From BBC

In “The Grand Finale,” Fellowes wanted to see how the father and daughter’s dynamic had evolved since those early episodes.

From Los Angeles Times

“Parks and Recreation” was originally meant to be a spinoff, but it eventually evolved away from that.

From Los Angeles Times

Armani preferred straighter lines, subtler curves and light, fluid fabrics, to the point where his eveningwear gradually evolved into semi-sheer dresses that seemed to wrap the body in fine netting.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• derive 
• emerge 
• expand 
• get 
• grow 
• mature 
• unfold