DEVOLVE Synonyms: 66 Similar and Opposite Words

devolve

verb

di-ˈvälv

Definition of devolve

as in to deteriorate

to become worse or of less value the once-lovely neighborhood has devolved into a squalid slum

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of devolve The danger then isn’t Hollywood merging with video games, but both devolving into transactional markets that no longer endeavor to keep us entertained — merely subscribed. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 7 July 2026 Things seem normal at first but quickly devolve once nighttime rolls around. — Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 7 July 2026 But during his stay, Haiti's already fragile political system devolved into unrest and violence that led to the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, and continues to today. — Vanessa Romo, NPR, 2 July 2026 Despite my own expertise and best efforts, my attempts to talk to my neighbors devolved into utter, frigid silence. — Deborah Mower, The Conversation, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for devolve

Recent Examples of Synonyms for devolve

Verb

What began as a low-level juvenile case became five years in secure custody as his behavior deteriorated and new charges accumulated.

— Christina Buttons, Washington Post, 14 July 2026
The sanctions come as the humanitarian situation on the island continues to deteriorate.

— Nora Gámez Torres, Miami Herald, 13 July 2026

Definition of deteriorate

Verb

Six months later, the longtime Sacramento Executive Airport institution remains closed after crews uncovered crumbling concrete, corroded rebar, asbestos and mold.

— Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 14 July 2026
But cliffs tend to crumble slowly over time, punctuated with a sudden collapse.

— Rosanna Xia, Los Angeles Times, 14 July 2026

Definition of crumble

Verb

For example, Gjoni says worsening insulin resistance and declining metabolic health can appear in bloodwork years before a diabetes diagnosis.

— Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 14 July 2026
Healthcare staffing challenges will likely worsen, according to a 2025 US Health Resources and Services Administration projection, with the agency predicting a shortage of 70,610 primary care doctors by 2038.

— Amen Galinato, CNN Money, 14 July 2026

Definition of worsen

Verb

During the initial June 11 to June 20 period, revenue per room rates fell in the Miami area on eight of ten nights compared to 2025 while occupancy declined on every one of the 10 nights, according to CoStar.

— Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 17 July 2026
MedStar Washington Hospital Center cites financial pressure and declining birth rates.

— Kendall Staton, Washington Post, 17 July 2026

Definition of decline

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devolutions

devolve

devolved

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“Devolve.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/devolve. Accessed 19 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of devolve

verb

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