evolutionary

[ev-uh-loo-shuh-ner-ee, ee-vuh-] / ˌɛv əˈlu ʃəˌnɛr i, ˌi və- /

ADJECTIVE

pertaining to evolution or development

Synonyms

STRONGEST

developmental metamorphic mutative transformative

STRONG

changing growing progressive transmutative

WEAK

generative revolutionary

Antonyms

STRONGEST

extinct stagnant stunted

STRONG

dormant idle inert

WEAK

arrested frozen

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"A similar evolutionary pattern has been documented in other animal groups," said Lerosey-Aubril.

From Science Daily • Apr. 3, 2026

The research team constructed the first evolutionary tree for decapodiformes based on genome sequences from nearly all major lineages.

From Science Daily • Apr. 1, 2026

"We believe this was a major driver for the evolutionary diversification of birds and other fauna in the North Island."

From Science Daily • Mar. 26, 2026

"There will be an evolutionary path to building humanity's first permanent surface outpost beyond Earth, and we will take the world along with us."

From Barron's • Mar. 24, 2026

We have a common organic chemistry and a common evolutionary heritage.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan