noun

evolution

/ˌɛvəˈluːʃən/ · say it: ev·uh·LOO·shuhn

change in inherited traits of populations over generations

In more detail

1. (noun) the slow change and development of something over a long period of time

2. (noun) the scientific theory that all living things have developed from simpler forms of life over millions of years through natural selection

Examples

1. The evolution of computers from large machines to small devices happened in just a few decades.
2. Darwin's theory of evolution explains how different animal species are related.

How to use evolution

Evolution refers to gradual change over extended periods, used in both scientific contexts (particularly biology) and general contexts to describe how anything develops. In scientific discourse, it specifically denotes the mechanism of species change through natural selection; in everyday use, it simply means gradual development or refinement. The term is value-neutral in scientific usage but can carry ideological weight in certain discussions.

Common phrases

theory of evolution
human evolution
evolution of language
biological evolution
evolutionary process
evolution over time

Synonyms

development · progression · transformation · change · adaptation

Opposites

stagnation · regression

Word family

evolve (verb) · evolutionary (adjective) · evolutionist (noun) · evolutionism (noun)

A common mistake

Learners often confuse evolution with revolution (sudden, radical change) or use evolution to mean improvement or progress toward a predetermined goal, whereas evolution in biology is non-directional change driven by environmental pressures.

Learn it for good

Save this word in WordVale and it comes back for review right before you'd forget it — with pronunciation, real examples, and optional translations. One purchase, no subscription.

Get WordValeFREE 7-DAY TRIAL · iPHONE & iPAD