Devious

/ˈdiːviəs/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Showing a skillful use of underhanded tactics to achieve goals.

His devious plan to win the competition involved sabotaging his opponent's efforts.

Not straightforward; circuitous or roundabout.

The devious route through the alleys took much longer than the direct path.

Willing to lie and trick people; deceitful.

She was known for her devious behavior, often manipulating others for her own benefit.

Late Middle English: from Latin 'devius', from 'de-' (away from) + 'via' (way).

devious mind

A person who is often scheming or engages in deceitful behavior.

devious route

A longer, more complicated way of getting somewhere, often used to avoid detection.

deviation

The act of departing from an established course or accepted standard.

devise

To plan or invent a complex procedure, system, or mechanism.

Sneaky or underhanded behavior.

That was a devious move, but it worked!

Crafty in achieving something often through trickery.

Don't trust him; he's got a devious side.