Devise

Definition

Devise refers to the act of planning, inventing, or formulating a method, system, or strategy through careful thought. It is also used in legal contexts to refer to the transfer of real estate or property through a will.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun (in legal contexts)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈvaɪz/
• Respelling: dih-VYZ

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈvaɪz/
• Respelling: dih-VYZ

The pronunciation of "devise" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "devise" comes from the Old French word "deviser," meaning "to divide or distribute," and later "to plan or contrive." It is derived from the Latin "dividere," meaning "to divide." The term entered the English language in the late 13th century, initially with legal connotations related to the transfer of property.

Derivatives

• Devisee (noun)
• Deviser (noun)
• Devisee (noun)
• Devisable (adjective)
• Devisees (plural noun)

Synonyms

• Plan
• Invent
• Formulate

Antonyms

• Ignore
• Neglect
• Disregard

Usage

The term "devise" is commonly used in contexts where planning or strategizing is involved. It is often seen in discussions about creating or inventing methods, systems, or strategies. In legal contexts, "devise" refers to the act of leaving property to someone through a will, particularly real estate.

Related Terms

• Contrive: To create or bring about a plan or situation, often through skill or ingenuity.
• Bequeath: To leave personal property to someone through a will.
• Invent: To create or design something that has not existed before.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To plan or invent something through careful thought: Refers to the act of coming up with new ideas, strategies, or methods.
  • Example: "They devised a new marketing strategy."
• To transfer property through a will (legal): Refers to the act of leaving real estate or other assets to someone upon death, typically through a legal document.
  • Example: "He devised his estate to his children in his will."

Noun (legal context)

• The act of leaving property to someone through a will: Refers to the transfer of real estate or other assets through a legal document.
  • Example: "The devise of the property was outlined in the will."