01 n. That which is devised, or formed by design; a contrivance; an invention; a project; a scheme; often, a scheme to deceive; a stratagem; an a…
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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.
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2.
Power of devising; invention; contrivance.“I must have instruments of my own device.” — Landor.
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3.
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. See: Cognizance“Knights-errant used to distinguish themselves by devices on their shields.” — Addison.“A banner with this strange device - Excelsior.” — Longfellow.
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4.
Anything fancifully conceived.
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5.
A spectacle or show.[Obs.]
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6.
Opinion; decision.[Obs.]
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7.
any artifactual object designed to perform an action or process, with or without an operator in attendance.
Syn.
Contrivance; invention; design; scheme; project; stratagem; shift.
-- 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.