Devil

/ˈdɛv.əl/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A supernatural being, typically depicted as the personification of evil and the adversary of God in various religions.

She believes that the devil tempted him into making bad decisions.

A wicked or malevolent person.

He has a reputation for being a devil among his peers, always stirring trouble.

Used as an exclamation to express annoyance or frustration.

What the devil is going on here?

A person who is mischievous or playful.

The child was such a little devil, always getting into trouble.

verb

To act like a devil or to mischievously distract or trouble someone.

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.

A cool or rebellious person.

That guy is such a devil with his edgy style.

Someone who is mischievous or troublemaking.

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