Definition of the word devolve on

The phrase "devolve on" originated in the legal sense, particularly in the context of common law, in the mid-1600s. At the time, "devolve" was a verb used to describe the act of something passing down from a higher authority or source to a lower one. In legal terms, it signified the transfer of responsibility or authority from a central government or body to a lower authority or official. More specifically, "devolve on" came to describe the situation where a specific task or burden falls upon an individual or group as a result of this transfer of authority. It was often used to refer to the responsibilities that were left to local authorities after central government powers were withdrawn or reduced in particular areas. The use of "devolve on" in this context reflected the importance of local governance and decentralization in the development of modern legal systems, as well as the increasing recognition of the potential benefits of devolving some powers and responsibilities from central authorities to local or smaller entities. Over time, the term "devolve on" has expanded beyond its legal roots and has become a recurring phrase in various fields and disciplines, including economics, politics, and organizational management. In these contexts, it continues to convey a sense of obligation, delegation, and transfer of responsibility.