evolution

noun

1. a process in which something passes by degrees to a different stage (especially a more advanced or mature stage)

   noun.process

   Examples

   The evolution of Greek civilization.

   Synonyms development

   Antonyms degeneration devolution

   Source: WordNet 3.0

2. (biology) the sequence of events involved in the evolutionary development of a species or taxonomic group of organisms

   noun.process

   Synonyms organic evolution phylogenesis phylogeny

   Source: WordNet 3.0

3. The act of unfolding or unrolling; hence, in the process of growth; development; as, the <i>evolution</i> of a flower from a bud, or an animal from the egg.

   noun

   Source: webster1913