devise
10 synonyms for devise, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To work out or invent a plan, method, or system through careful thought.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use devise
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
devise a plan
devise a scheme
devise a strategy
Etymology
From Old French deviser, ultimately from Latin dīvidere, "to divide" — the sense narrowed from "to arrange, plan" toward "to invent" and, separately, its legal meaning of bequeathing property.
Full origin of devise →Frequently asked questions
What does “devise” mean?
The word “devise” means to work out or invent a plan, method, or system through careful thought. In plain terms, to think up and plan something, or (in law) to leave property to someone in your will.
How do you pronounce “devise”?
“Devise” is pronounced dih-VYZ (/dɪˈvaɪz/ in IPA).
How do you use “devise” in a sentence?
Here is “devise” used in a sentence: “The team devised a new way to cut delivery times in half.”
What part of speech is “devise”?
“Devise” is a verb.
Where does the word “devise” come from?
The word “devise” comes from Latin. From Old French deviser, ultimately from Latin dīvidere, "to divide" — the sense narrowed from "to arrange, plan" toward "to invent" and, separately, its legal meaning of bequeathing property.
Is “devise” a common word?
“Devise” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “devise” have?
“Devise” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to work out or invent a plan, method, or system through careful thought.
