De·vise v. t. [imp. & p. p. Devised p. pr. & vb. n. Devising.]
1. To form in the mind by new combinations of ideas, new applications of principles, or new arrangement of parts; to formulate by thought; to contrive; to excogitate; to invent; to plan; to scheme; as, to devise an engine, a new mode of writing, a plan of defense, or an argument.
To devise curious works. --Ex. CCTV. 32.
Devising schemes to realize his ambitious views. --Bancroft.
2. To plan or scheme for; to purpose to obtain.
For wisdom is most riches; fools therefore
They are which fortunes do by vows devise. --Spenser.
3. To say; to relate; to describe. [Obs.]
4. To imagine; to guess. [Obs.]
5. Law To give by will; -- used of real estate; formerly, also, of chattels.
Syn: -- To bequeath; invent; discover; contrive; excogitate; imagine; plan; scheme. See Bequeath.