Devise
/dɪˈvaɪz/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo plan or create something using intelligence or careful thought.
/dɪˈvaɪz/
To plan or invent a complex procedure, system, or mechanism by careful thought.
The students devised a clever scheme to raise money for their class trip.
💡 Simply: Imagine you want to build a really cool Lego creation. To 'devise' means you plan out how you'll put it together—the steps, the pieces you'll need, the whole process. Like, 'I devised a plan to build a spaceship out of my Lego bricks!'
👶 For kids: To think of a plan or a way to do something.
More Examples
The team devised a new training program to improve their performance.
The architect devised a unique design for the new building.
How It's Used
"The marketing team devised a new strategy to increase sales."
"Engineers devised a new method to improve the engine's efficiency."
To legally transfer property or assets by a will.
/dɪˈvaɪz/
To leave or give (property) to a person by will.
The grandfather devised his entire fortune to his grandchildren.
💡 Simply: Imagine a wealthy grandma who's writing her will. To 'devise' means she's deciding exactly who gets her favorite antique clock or her beautiful house. She's making plans for giving her things to specific people after she's gone.
👶 For kids: When someone writes in a will who gets their things after they die.
More Examples
The property was devised to his daughter in the will.
The will devised the family home to his wife.
How It's Used
"The will devised the family estate to his eldest son."
From Middle English *divisen*, from Old French *deviser* ('to divide, arrange, plan'), from Latin *dividere* ('to divide').
Historically, 'devise' has been used since the 14th century, both in legal and general planning contexts. The legal sense evolved from the act of dividing or distributing property.
Memory tip
Think of DE-vise; it means to deconstruct and re-vise or invent.
Word Origin
"to divide, arrange, plan"