n.1 gradual development, esp. from a simple to a more complex form.
2 a process by which species develop from earlier forms, as an explanation of their origins.
3 the appearance or presentation of events etc. in due succession (the evolution of the plot).
4 a change in the disposition of troops or ships.
5 the giving off or evolving of gas, heat, etc.
6 an opening out.
7 the unfolding of a curve.
8 Math. the extraction of a root from any given power (cf. INVOLUTION).
Derivatives:
evolutional adj. evolutionally adv. evolutionary adj. evolutionarily adv.
Etymology: L evolutio unrolling (as EVOLVE)