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Devious: meaning, definitions and examples

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devious

 

[ ˈdiːviəs ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

behavior

Showing a skillful use of underhanded tactics to achieve goals; deceitful.

Synonyms

crafty, cunning, scheming, sly

Examples of usage

  • He had a devious plan to cheat his way to the top.
  • She was known for her devious ways of manipulating others.
Context #2 | Adjective

route

Indirect in departing from the accepted or proper way; not straightforward.

Synonyms

circuitous, indirect, roundabout, winding

Examples of usage

  • The devious path through the forest took longer but avoided the guards.
  • He took a devious route to avoid traffic.

Translations

Translations of the word "devious" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ardiloso

🇮🇳 धूर्त

🇩🇪 hinterhältig

🇮🇩 licik

🇺🇦 підступний

🇵🇱 podstępny

🇯🇵 ずるい

🇫🇷 sournois

🇪🇸 engañoso

🇹🇷 sinsi

🇰🇷 교활한

🇸🇦 ماكر

🇨🇿 záludný

🇸🇰 zákerný

🇨🇳 狡猾的

🇸🇮 zahrbten

🇮🇸 undirförull

🇰🇿 айлакер

🇬🇪 ეშმაკური

🇦🇿 hiyləgər

🇲🇽 engañoso

Etymology

The word 'devious' originated from the Latin word 'devius', which meant 'out of the way' or 'remote'. Over time, it evolved to encompass the idea of indirectness or deceitful behavior. The term has been used in English since the late 16th century to describe someone or something that strays from the accepted path or acts in a cunning manner.

See also: deviously.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,246, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.