devious
|de-vi-ous|
/ˈdiːviəs/
indirect or deceitful
Etymology
'devious' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'deviare,' where 'de-' meant 'off' and 'via' meant 'way.'
'deviare' transformed into the French word 'dévier,' and eventually became the modern English word 'devious' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'off the path,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'indirect or deceitful.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
showing a skillful use of underhanded tactics to achieve goals.
He took a devious route to avoid the traffic.
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Adjective 2
(Of a route or journey) longer and less direct than the most straightforward way.
The path through the forest was devious and hard to follow.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40