Definitions for: Device


[n] any clever (deceptive) maneuver; "he would stoop to any device to win a point"
[n]
[n] an emblematic design (especially in heraldry); "he was recognized by the device on his shield"
[n] any ornamental pattern or design (as in embroidery)
[n] something in an artistic work designed to achieve a particular effect



Webster (1913) Definition: De*vice", n. [OE. devis, devise, will, intention,
opinion, invention, fr. F. devis architect's plan and
estimates (in OF., division, plan, wish), devise device (in
sense 3), in OF. also, division, wish, last will, fr.
deviser. See Devise, v. t., and cf. Devise, n.]
1. That which is devised, or formed by design; a contrivance;
an invention; a project; a scheme; often, a scheme to
deceive; a stratagem; an artifice.

His device in against Babylon, to destroy it. --Jer.
li. 11.

Their recent device of demanding benevolences.
--Hallam.

He disappointeth the devices of the crafty. --Job v.
12.

2. Power of devising; invention; contrivance.

I must have instruments of my own device. --Landor.

3.
(a) An emblematic design, generally consisting of one or
more figures with a motto, used apart from heraldic
bearings to denote the historical situation, the
ambition, or the desire of the person adopting it. See
Cognizance.
(b) Improperly, an heraldic bearing.

Knights-errant used to distinguish themselves by
devices on their shields. --Addison.

A banner with this strange device - Excelsior.
--Longfellow.

4. Anything fancifully conceived. --Shak.

5. A spectacle or show. [Obs.] --Beau. & Fl.

6. Opinion; decision. [Obs.] --Rom. of R.

Syn: Contrivance; invention; design; scheme; project;
stratagem; shift.

Usage: -- Device, Contrivance. Device implies more of
inventive power, and contrivance more of skill and
dexterity in execution. A device usually has reference
to something worked out for exhibition or show; a
contrivance usually respects the arrangement or
disposition of things with reference to securing some
end. Devices were worn by knights-errant on their
shields; contrivances are generally used to promote
the practical convenience of life. The word device is
often used in a bad sense; as, a crafty device;
contrivance is almost always used in a good sense; as,
a useful contrivance.

Synonyms: gimmick, twist

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