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| de·vice [ di vss ] (plural de·vices) |
noun |
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| Definition: |
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1. tool or machine: a tool or machine designed to perform a particular task or function
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2. ploy: a way of achieving something, especially a clever or dishonest way
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3. explosive object: a bomb or something that causes an explosion or fire
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4. literary or dramatic tool: something designed to create a particular effect in a literary or dramatic work, or to evoke a particular response from a reader, listener, or viewer
  a familiar cinematic device
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5. emblem or motto: an emblem or motto, or a combination of the two, especially when used in heraldry
a heraldic device
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6. ornamental design: an ornamental pattern or design, e.g. in embroidery
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| [13th century. < Old French devis "division, contrivance," devise "plan" < Latin dividere (see divide)] |
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leave somebody to his or her own devices to let somebody do as he or she wishes, instead of giving the person direction or assistance
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