The correct answer is (D) 1. The act of devolving; A reversal of evolution by a return to previous forms. 2. The transferring of responsibility, authority, power, etc., by a central government to a regional or local government. 3. The passing of property upon death, as to an heir.

Examples of use:

• A process of devolution began in Scotland with a referendum in 1997 that led to the creation of a Scottish parliament in 1999.
  
  
• Conservative governments generally favor devolution of powers by the central government to the states or provinces.