[de.vo.lu.tion] n [ML devolution-, devolutio, fr. L devolvere] (1545) 1: transference (as of rights, powers, property, or responsibility) to another; esp: the surrender of powers to local authorities by a central government
2: retrograde evolution: degeneration -- de.vo.lu.tion.ary adj -- de.vo.lu.tion.ist n