Synonyms of devolution

devolution

noun

ˌde-və-ˈlü-shən 

as in deterioration

a change to a lower state or level

the gradual devolution of the neighborhood from a thriving community of close-knit families to a drug-ridden slum

Synonyms & Similar Words

• deterioration
• degradation
• decline
• declination
• descent
• decadence
• degeneration
• downfall
• destruction
• ebb
• eclipse
• decrease
• degeneracy
• reduction
• fall
• downgrade
• dissolution
• declension
• decay
• disintegration
• decomposition
• dégringolade
• drop
• breakup
• loss
• sunset
• dark age
• depreciation
• crumbling
• nadir
• debasement
• rotting
• spoiling
• dip
• diminution
• shrinkage
• slump
• demolition
• abasement
• decimation
• ruination
• havoc
• downturn
• lowering
• deflation
• diminishment
• lessening
• abatement
• ruin
• decrement
• falloff
• downtrend
• sag
• desolation
• demolishment
• downslide
• slip
• drop-off
• de-escalation

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• development
• evolution
• growth
• rise
• advancement
• ascent
• restoration
• flowering
• renewal
• upswing
• revitalization
• increase
• enhancement
• addition
• gain
• augmentation
• increment
• blossoming
• flourishing
• supplement
• raise
• boost
• accretion
• accrual
• heightening
• addendum

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of devolution

Ambitious goals Alongside lofty promises of change, welfare reform and devolution of power, Burham announced his first policy intervention – to tackle homelessness. — Issy Ronald, CNN Money, 20 July 2026

Rather than dwelling on his Blairite roots, Burnham calls for the devolution of power away from London and points to his record as the mayor of Greater Manchester County from 2017 until last week. — John Cassidy, New Yorker, 20 July 2026

Burnham argues Greater Manchester, which has been granted more power in the last decade and achieved greater growth, is a case study in how devolution can work. — J.d. Capelouto, semafor.com, 29 June 2026

Burnham presented his vision for a paradigm shift in British politics with devolution at the center of his plans for economic growth, public housing reform, industrial policy, and education. — Tiago Ventura, Time, 29 June 2026