1. to transfer or delegate (power, responsibility, or authority) to someone at a lower level
Usage: often used in political or administrative contexts
2. to pass by transmission or succession (as property or rights)
Usage: formal; legal
3. to degenerate or deteriorate gradually
Usage: often followed by ‘into’

Examples

• The federal government decided to devolve more power to the states.
• After the CEO’s retirement, leadership responsibilities devolved to the vice president.
• The property will devolve to his eldest son upon his death.
• The peaceful protest began to devolve into chaos.
• Without proper maintenance, the building devolved into a state of disrepair.
• The company devolved decision-making authority to regional managers.
• The discussion devolved into personal attacks and name-calling.