devolve
1 of 1verb/dɪˈvɑlv/
Forms:devolves,devolving,devolved,devolved
1
2
a genus of Phasmidae
3
to transfer power, responsibility, or authority to the next person in a hierarchy or succession, often due to the loss or failure of the previous holder
- The throne will devolve to the eldest son upon the king’s death.
- If the president is incapacitated, power will devolve to the vice president.
- Control over the territory devolved to the local government after the central authority collapsed.
- The responsibilities for managing the company will devolve to the board of directors after the CEO resigns.
- Upon the general’s death, command of the army devolved to his most trusted lieutenant.
4
pass on or delegate to another