Entry Word: device

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 a clever often underhanded means to achieve an end <used every device and stratagem he knew to prevent their marriage> — see trick 1
2 an article intended for use in work <the salesclerk tried to sell me a new device for grooming cats> — see implement
3 devices plurala habitual attraction to some activity or thing <left to her own devices sheʼd eat at a fast-food restaurant every night of the week> — see inclination 1