Definition of: devolve

(di·volv′) v. ·volved, ·volv·ing v.t.
1. To cause to pass to a successor or substitute.
2. Archaic To roll down.
—v.i.
3. To pass from a possessor to a successor or substitute: with to, on, or upon. [<L devolvere <de- down + volvere roll]
—de·volve′ment noun