Definition

Relating to the transfer of power or authority from a central government to local or regional governments.

Example

The devolutionary policies aimed to give more control to local authorities.

Conversation

I read an article about devolutionary politics yesterday.

Oh really? What did it say?

It talked about how some regions want more power through devolutionary measures.

That sounds interesting! I wonder how that would affect local governance.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Devolutionary → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "volutio" (from Latin, meaning to roll or turn). The suffix "-ary" indicates relating to. Thus, the word refers to something that relates to the process of rolling down or transferring power to lower levels.

Memory Tip

Think of 'rolling down' ('de-' means down and 'volutio' means to roll') to remember that 'devolutionary' relates to the transfer of power to lower levels.

Visually Confused Words