device

n. countable

A2 Elementary Oxford US //dɪˈvaɪs// UK //dɪvˈaɪs// de·vice

Academic Archaic General-service

n. a tool or piece of equipment made for a specific job. You usually use this word for small machines like phones or tablets.

n. an object, machine, or piece of equipment designed and manufactured for a specific purpose or function.

SIMPLE

This small device helps you track your keys.

CONTEXTUAL

The technician repaired the electronic device by replacing a single damaged wire inside the casing.

COMPLEX

Modern smartphones are sophisticated multi-purpose devices that have effectively replaced cameras, music players, and handheld gaming consoles for the average consumer.

Synonyms

Origin

Etymology tree Proto-Indo-European *dews-? Proto-Indo-European *dus- Proto-Indo-European *dwóh₁ Proto-Indo-European *dwi- Proto-Indo-European *dwóh₁ Proto-Indo-European *dwís Latin dis- ▲ Proto-Indo-European *dwi- Proto-Indo-European *dʰeh₁- Proto-Indo-European *h₁weydʰh₁-der. Proto-Italic *wiðō Latin *vidō Latin dīvidō Latin dīvīsus Old French devisbor. Middle English devis English device From Middle English devis, devise, devyce, devys, devyse, from Old French devis and devise, from Latin dīvīsus, past participle of dīvidō (“to divide”). Doublet of devise (noun).

Usage

Commonly used with modifiers like 'electronic', 'mobile', or 'medical'.