'Devolution' definitions:
Definition of 'devolution'
(from WordNet)
noun
The process of declining from a higher to a lower level of effective power or vitality or essential quality [syn: degeneration, devolution] [ant: development, evolution]
noun
The delegation of authority (especially from a central to a regional government) [syn: devolution, devolvement]
Definition of 'Devolution'
From: GCIDE
- Devolution \Dev`o*lu"tion\, n. [LL. devolutio: cf. F. d['e]volution.]
- 1. The act of rolling down. [R.] [1913 Webster]
- The devolution of earth down upon the valleys. --Woodward. [1913 Webster]
- 2. Transference from one person to another; a passing or devolving upon a successor. [1913 Webster]
- The devolution of the crown through a . . . channel known and conformable to old constitutional requisitions. --De Quincey. [1913 Webster]