First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
device
noun de·vice \di-ˈvīs\
: an object, machine, or piece of equipment that has been made for some special purpose
: a weapon that explodes
: something that is done in order to achieve a particular effect
Full Definition of DEVICE
1
: something devised or contrived: as a (1) : plan, procedure, technique (2) : a scheme to deceive : stratagem, trick b : something fanciful, elaborate, or intricate in design c : something (as a figure of speech) in a literary work designed to achieve a particular artistic effect d archaic : masque, spectacle e : a conventional stage practice or means (as a stage whisper) used to achieve a particular dramatic effect f : a piece of equipment or a mechanism designed to serve a special purpose or perform a special function <an electronic device>
2
: desire, inclination <left to my own devices>
3
: an emblematic design used especially as a heraldic bearing
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Origin of DEVICE
Middle English devis, devise, from Anglo-French, division, plan, from deviser to divide, regulate, tell — more at devise
Related to DEVICE
Other Literature Terms
Rhymes with DEVICE
DEVICES Defined for Kids
device
noun de·vice \di-ˈvīs\
Definition of DEVICE for Kids
1
: a piece of equipment made for a special purpose <electronic devices>
2
: choice of what to do <We were left to our own devices.>
3
: a thing or act used to deceive : trick
Medical Dictionary
device
noun de·vice \di-ˈvīs\
Medical Definition of DEVICE
: a piece of equipment or a mechanism designed to serve a special purpose or perform a special function
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