devious — showing a skillful use of underhanded tactics to achieve goals
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: showing a skillful use of underhanded tactics to achieve goals
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈdiːviəs/
Example Sentences
- The devious student copied answers by writing them on his eraser.
- She took a devious route through the back streets to avoid traffic.
- His devious plot to steal cookies involved distracting his mom with compliments.
devious
ADJECTIVE[/ˈdiːviəs/]
showing a skillful use of underhanded tactics to achieve goals
The devious advisor whispers a false plan to mislead the young king.
He looks serious, hiding his previous devious schemes.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'devious' meaning 'out of the way' or 'wandering,' derived from 'de-' (away from) and 'via' (way/road). The word originally described a physical path that strayed from the main route, later extending to describe indirect or deceptive behavior.
Breakdown
de- (away from) + via (way/road) + -ous (adjective suffix) = devious
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The devious student copied answers by writing them on his eraser.”
“She took a devious route through the back streets to avoid traffic.”
“His devious plot to steal cookies involved distracting his mom with compliments.”
“The politician's devious campaign strategy backfired spectacularly.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
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