devil
UK: ˈdɛv(ə)l | US: ˈdɛv(ə)l
n. 1. (the Devil) the supreme spirit of evil in Christianity and other monotheistic religions; Satan.
n. 2. a wicked or cruel person.
n. 3. a mischievously clever or self-willed person.
No data yet.
The word "devil" traces back to Old English dēofol, borrowed from Latin diabolus, which itself came from Greek diabolos ("slanderer, accuser"). The Greek term derives from diaballein ("to throw across, slander"), combining dia- ("across") + ballein ("to throw"). This reflects the ancient concept of the devil as a figure who "throws" accusations or temptations to lead humans astray. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation evolved into Middle English devel and later "devil," retaining its core meaning of a malevolent supernatural being.
The devil is often depicted with horns and a pitchfork in folklore.
He was a devil to his employees, demanding impossible tasks.
She’s a little devil, always playing pranks on her siblings.
"Speak of the devil," John said as his late friend walked in.
The villagers blamed the strange occurrences on the devil.