evolve

verb \i-ˈvälv, -ˈvȯlv, ē- also -ˈväv or -ˈvȯv\

: to change or develop slowly often into a better, more complex, or more advanced state : to develop by a process of evolution

evolvedevolv·ing

Full Definition of EVOLVE

transitive verb

: emit

a : derive, educe

b : to produce by natural evolutionary processes

c : develop, work out <evolve social, political, and literary philosophies — L. W. Doob>

intransitive verb

: to undergo evolutionary change

— evolv·able \-ˈväl-və-bəl, -ˈvȯl- also -ˈvä-və- or -ˈvȯ-və-\ adjective

— evolve·ment \-ˈvälv-mənt, -ˈvȯlv- also -ˈväv- or -ˈvȯv-\ noun

See evolve defined for English-language learners

See evolve defined for kids

Origin of EVOLVE

Latin evolvere to unroll, from e- + volvere to roll — more at voluble

First Known Use: 1775

Related to EVOLVE

Synonyms: elaborate, develop, unfold

EVOLVEMENT Defined for Kids

evolve

verb \i-ˈvälv\

evolvedevolv·ing

Definition of EVOLVE for Kids

: to change or develop gradually

Word Root of EVOLVE

The Latin word volvere, meaning “to roll” or “to turn around,” gives us the root volv. Words from the Latin volvere have something to do with turning. To revolve is to turn in circles or travel on a circular path. To evolve, or grow or develop out of something else, is to unroll from a source. To involve, or include, is to roll someone into a situation.

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