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
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Recent Examples of devolve
But that certainty devolved as the program faded from discussion amid the chaos of rapidly evolving trade policy, and relationships with bigger partners—China, India, the European Union—have dominated the discourse.
—
Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 30 Sep. 2025
Through that summer, a grim routine developed where peaceful marches would devolve into vandalism and threats against police officers.
—Andy Rose, CNN Money, 28 Sep. 2025
Without a process for reconciling these differences, such conversations can devolve into conflict.
—Bruce Helmer, Twin Cities, 27 Sep. 2025
The Broncos have devolved from hype to hope.
—Troy Renck, Denver Post, 18 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for devolve
Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 30 Sep. 2025
Through that summer, a grim routine developed where peaceful marches would devolve into vandalism and threats against police officers.
—Andy Rose, CNN Money, 28 Sep. 2025
Without a process for reconciling these differences, such conversations can devolve into conflict.
—Bruce Helmer, Twin Cities, 27 Sep. 2025
The Broncos have devolved from hype to hope.
—Troy Renck, Denver Post, 18 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for devolve
Recent Examples of Synonyms for devolve
Verb
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Run defense by the safety opposite Minkah Fitzpatrick also has deteriorated.—
Barry Jackson,
Miami Herald,
9 Oct. 2025
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The plan has seen rapid growth in recent years as California’s insurance market has deteriorated, with companies pulling back business in the state due to rising risks from climate change, losses caused by major wildfires and other factors.—
Stephen Hobbs,
Sacbee.com,
9 Oct. 2025
Verb
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On a screen above the stage, a flying saucer descended—an image that still lingers in my mind.—
Joe Garcia,
New Yorker,
12 Oct. 2025
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The administration understands the profound risks involved — particularly the catastrophic damage to US credibility if such an operation failed or descended into prolonged conflict.—
Morgan Chalfant,
semafor.com,
10 Oct. 2025
Verb
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The Murdaughs' facade of prosperity, love and happiness all starts to crumble after Paul crashes that boat.—
Kelly Lawler,
USA Today,
13 Oct. 2025
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Yet after three easy wins during a light nonconference schedule, the Nittany Lions crumbled.—
Travis Johnson,
Denver Post,
12 Oct. 2025
Verb
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Laing also cautioned that sardines contain purines, which may cause a buildup of uric acid and worsen symptoms like joint pain and swelling for people with gout.—
Stephanie Brown,
Verywell Health,
10 Oct. 2025
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Pain may worsen at night or in the morning, not improve with rest, and differ from common muscle or digestive issues.—
Lindsay Curtis,
Health,
10 Oct. 2025
Verb
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Agency officials and spokespeople declined to speak to ProPublica.—
Megan O’Matz,
ProPublica,
10 Oct. 2025
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Trammell Crow declined to provide further details on the permit filing, including information on a construction timeline.—
Desiree Mathurin,
Charlotte Observer,
9 Oct. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Devolve.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/devolve. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025.
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