Definition of devolve

• v. t. - To roll onward or downward; to pass on.
• v. t. - To transfer from one person to another; to deliver over; to hand down; -- generally with upon, sometimes with to or into.
• v. i. - To pass by transmission or succession; to be handed over or down; -- generally with on or upon, sometimes with to or into; as, after the general fell, the command devolved upon (or on) the next officer in rank.