devolution

/ˌdɛvəˈluːʃən/
noun
  1. The transfer of power or authority from a central government to regional or local governments.
    • Supporters of devolution argue that local leaders understand community needs better than officials in the capital.
    • Devolution gave Scotland its own parliament to make decisions on education and health.
    • The debate over devolution continues as regions demand more control over local affairs.
  2. The process of something declining or reverting to a simpler or worse state.
    • Some critics see the new policy as a devolution of the country's educational standards.
    • The devolution of the once-thriving neighborhood into a neglected area saddened longtime residents.
    • He worried about the devolution of his grandfather's health after the stroke.
Synonyms