evolutionary

[ ev-uh-loo-shuh-ner-eeor, especially British, ee-vuh- ]

adjective

1. pertaining to evolution or development; developmental:

   the evolutionary origin of species.

2. of, relating to, or in accordance with a theory of evolution, especially in biology.
3. pertaining to or performing evolutions.

Other Words From

• evo·lution·ari·ly adverb
• anti·evo·lution·ary adjective
• nonev·o·lution·ary adjective
• preev·o·lution·ary adjective
• proev·o·lution·ary adjective
• unev·o·lution·ary adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of evolutionary¹

First recorded in 1840–50; evolution + -ary

Example Sentences

"Our recent research enables us to go back much farther, to see what evolutionary lineages a horse has in its DNA," Cothran said.

From Science Daily

It was a great example of an intermediate that bridged an evolutionary gap.

From Science Daily

This breakthrough reshapes our understanding of the genetic origins of stem cells, offering a new perspective on the evolutionary ties between animals and their ancient single-celled relatives.

From Science Daily

This process enhances functional and evolutionary diversity, both crucial for building resilient ecosystems capable of withstanding climate change.

From Science Daily

Benítez' work lies at the intersection of anthropology, psychology and evolutionary biology.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• developmental
• metamorphic
• mutative
• transformative