DEVISE, v.t. s as z. [L.] 1. To invent; to contrive; to form in the mind by new combinations of ideas, new applications of principles, or new arrangement of parts; to excogitate; to strike out by thought; to plan; to scheme; to project; as, to devise an engine or machine; to devise a new mode of writing; to devise a plan of defense; to devise arguments.To devise curious works in gold and silver. Exodus 35.In a bad sense:Devise not evil against thy neighbor. Proverbs 3.2. To give or bequeath by will, as land or other real estate.DEVISE, v.i. To consider; to contrive; to lay a plan; to form a scheme. Devise how you will use him, when he comes.Formerly followed by of; as, let us devise of ease.DEVISE, n. 1. Primarily, a dividing or division; hence, the act of bequeathing by will; the act of giving or distributing real estate by a testator.2. A will or testament.3. A share of estate bequeathed.DEVISE, n. Contrivance; scheme invented.
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