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

Out next month, Star follows the rise of two fictional musical acts—a pop star, Ashley, and Siren8, a teen idol group—and the gradual devolution of fan admiration into obsession, and eventually, violence. — Jenny Tinghui Zhang, Vogue, 24 Mar. 2026

Several factors beyond the democratization of the presidential nominating process have driven the devolution of the Democratic and Republican parties. — David M. Drucker, Twin Cities, 22 Feb. 2026

The devolution of the traditional life style coincided with a surge in social problems. — Ben Taub, New Yorker, 24 Nov. 2025

On top of that, the devolution of NCAA amateurism presents a chance to reconsider elite player development. — Luke Cyphers, Sportico.com, 16 Oct. 2025