Meaning & Definition of word "Devil"

Devil

/ˈdɛv.əl/

1. A supernatural being, typically depicted as the personification of evil and the adversary of God in various religions.
- Example: She believes that the devil tempted him into making bad decisions.
2. A wicked or malevolent person.
- Example: He has a reputation for being a devil among his peers, always stirring trouble.
3. Used as an exclamation to express annoyance or frustration.
- Example: What the devil is going on here?
4. A person who is mischievous or playful.
- Example: The child was such a little devil, always getting into trouble.

1. To act like a devil or to mischievously distract or trouble someone.
- Example: He devil'd the children by making spooky sounds in the dark.

Middle English: from Old French 'deable', based on Latin 'diabolus', from Greek 'diabolos' meaning 'slanderer'.

the devil's advocate:

Someone who argues a position they do not necessarily agree with, often to provoke debate.

speak of the devil:

Used when a person mentioned in conversation suddenly appears.

the devil is in the details:

Small details can cause significant problems.

a devil of a time:

Used to indicate a difficult or troublesome situation.

demonic:

Relating to or resembling a demon.

diabolical:

Characteristic of the devil, especially in being evil or wicked.

satanic:

Of or relating to Satan, often used to describe malevolent behavior.

Meaning: A cool or rebellious person.

Example Sentence: That guy is such a devil with his edgy style.

Meaning: Someone who is mischievous or troublemaking.

Example Sentence: She's a real devil, always playing pranks on her friends.