1
b
: something fanciful, elaborate, or intricate in design
c
: something (such as a figure of speech) in a literary work designed to achieve a particular artistic effect
irony and other literary devices
a plot device
e
: a conventional stage practice or means (such as a stage whisper) used to achieve a particular dramatic effect
f
: a piece of equipment or a mechanism designed to serve a special purpose or perform a special function
smartphones and other electronic devices
a hidden recording device
2
: desire, inclination
left to my own devices
3
heraldry
: an emblematic design used especially as a heraldic bearing (see bearing sense 4)
Synonyms
Examples of device in a Sentence
The store sells TVs, VCRs, and other electronic devices.
agreeing to dismantle all nuclear devices
a useful mnemonic device for remembering the names of the planets
The company's method of tracking expenses is just a device to make it seem more profitable.
Recent Examples on the Web
In addition, enhance your experience with the DirecTV Stream device.
—
Mark Heim | Mheim@al.com, al, 11 Sep. 2023
To prepare for the change, the spokesperson said, CMS asked for comment on the devices and drugs that people believe would meet the definition of non-opioid treatments for pain relief.
—Angela Roberts, Baltimore Sun, 11 Sep. 2023
The device is compatible with all cell phones, and has no impact on the charging port or functionality of your device.
—Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 10 Sep. 2023
Osborn said Core's support and the chance to work out the particulars of the device in a real-world setting was a key component in creating the technology.
—John Magsam, Arkansas Online, 10 Sep. 2023
Gandhi often weaved his own khadi clothing on a charkha, or spinning wheel, a device that has come to symbolize the country’s political and economic emancipation.
—Rhea Mogul, CNN, 10 Sep. 2023
How many devices can stream NFL Sunday Ticket at the same time?
—Mike Snider, USA TODAY, 9 Sep. 2023
In addition to the accusations of planting fake explosive devices at his barracks, Mr. Khalife has been accused of collecting information that could be useful to an enemy.
—Mark Landler, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2023
Noise-making devices, including whistles and air horns.
—Haadiza Ogwude, The Enquirer, 31 Aug. 2023
See More
Mark Heim | Mheim@al.com, al, 11 Sep. 2023
To prepare for the change, the spokesperson said, CMS asked for comment on the devices and drugs that people believe would meet the definition of non-opioid treatments for pain relief.
—Angela Roberts, Baltimore Sun, 11 Sep. 2023
The device is compatible with all cell phones, and has no impact on the charging port or functionality of your device.
—Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 10 Sep. 2023
Osborn said Core's support and the chance to work out the particulars of the device in a real-world setting was a key component in creating the technology.
—John Magsam, Arkansas Online, 10 Sep. 2023
Gandhi often weaved his own khadi clothing on a charkha, or spinning wheel, a device that has come to symbolize the country’s political and economic emancipation.
—Rhea Mogul, CNN, 10 Sep. 2023
How many devices can stream NFL Sunday Ticket at the same time?
—Mike Snider, USA TODAY, 9 Sep. 2023
In addition to the accusations of planting fake explosive devices at his barracks, Mr. Khalife has been accused of collecting information that could be useful to an enemy.
—Mark Landler, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2023
Noise-making devices, including whistles and air horns.
—Haadiza Ogwude, The Enquirer, 31 Aug. 2023
See More
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'device.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
Phrases Containing device
Dictionary Entries Near device
Cite this Entry
“Device.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/device. Accessed 25 Sep. 2023.
Copy Citation
Kids Definition
device
noun
de·vice
di-ˈvīs 
1
a
: a scheme to deceive : stratagem
b
: something (as a figure of speech) in a written work designed to achieve a particular artistic effect
c
: a piece of equipment to serve a special purpose
electronic devices
2
plural
: a preferred way of doing or acting : inclination
left to her own devices
3
: a design that is an emblem
especially
: one used in a coat of arms
Medical Definition
device
noun
de·vice
di-ˈvīs
: a piece of equipment or a mechanism designed to serve a special purpose or perform a special function
More from Merriam-Webster on device
Nglish: Translation of device for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of device for Arabic Speakers
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share