any process of formation or growth; development

the evolution of a language; the evolution of the airplane.

a product of such development; something evolved

The exploration of space is the evolution of decades of research.

Biology . change in the gene pool of a population from generation to generation by such processes as mutation, natural selection, and genetic drift.

a process of gradual, peaceful, progressive change or development, as in social or economic structure or institutions.

a motion incomplete in itself, but combining with coordinated motions to produce a single action, as in a machine.

a pattern formed by or as if by a series of movements

the evolutions of a figure skater.

an evolving or giving off of gas, heat, etc.

Mathematics . the extraction of a root from a quantity. Compare involution ( def. 8 ) .

a movement or one of a series of movements of troops, ships, etc., as for disposition in order of battle or in line on parade.

any similar movement, esp. in close order drill.

noun

blockage , decrease , halt , stoppage

noun

change , enlargement , evolvement , expansion , flowering , growth , increase , maturation , natural process , progression , transformation , unfolding , working out , progress , maneuver , move , turn , adaptive radiation , advancement , cladistics , development , metamorphosis , ontogeny , phylogeny , unfoldment