Evolution
/ˌiːvəˈluːʃən/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe gradual process by which something changes into a different and usually more complex or better form.
/ˌiːvəˈluːʃən/
The gradual development of something
The evolution of language is a complex and ongoing process.
💡 Simply: Imagine a caterpillar turning into a beautiful butterfly. Evolution is like that – a slow and steady change over time, making things get better or different. It's like how your favorite toy might get an upgrade!
👶 For kids: Evolution is when things slowly change over a long, long time. Like how a baby grows into a grown-up!
More Examples
Darwin's theory of evolution revolutionized the field of biology.
The company's marketing strategy underwent a significant evolution over the years.
How It's Used
"The theory of evolution by natural selection explains the diversity of life on Earth."
"The evolution of smartphones has been rapid over the past decade."
"The evolution of human societies can be studied through various historical and anthropological records."
The gradual development of organisms through the history of the earth.
/ˌiːvəˈluːʃən/
The process by which different kinds of living organisms are believed to have developed from earlier forms during the history of the earth.
Evolution is the driving force behind the diversity of life.
💡 Simply: Imagine all the animals and plants on earth and how they all changed a little bit, bit by bit, over a long, long time. Evolution is all about those tiny changes that add up.
👶 For kids: Evolution is how animals and plants change over time!
More Examples
Scientists study the fossil record to understand the patterns of evolution.
The theory of evolution is a cornerstone of modern biology.
How It's Used
"The study of evolution helps us understand how life on Earth has changed over millions of years."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
survival of the fittest
The concept that the organisms best adapted to their environment are the ones most likely to survive and reproduce.
"In the harsh economic climate, only the survival of the fittest businesses thrived."
evolve over time
To gradually develop or change over a period of time.
"Our business plan had to evolve over time in response to market changes."
From Latin *evolutio* ('unrolling, unfolding'), from *evolvere* ('to unroll, unfold'), from *e-* ('out') + *volvere* ('to roll'). Initially used in astronomy and mathematics before being applied to biology.
The term 'evolution' gained prominence in the 19th century, particularly with the publication of Charles Darwin's *On the Origin of Species*.
Memory tip
Think of a caterpillar changing into a butterfly – a clear example of evolution.
Word Origin
"To unroll or unfold"