devious
UK: ˈdiːviəs | US: ˈdiːviəs
adj. 1. Not straightforward; cunning or deceitful.
adj. 2. Straying from the proper or direct course; roundabout.
The word "devious" originates from Latin deviare ("to turn aside"), combining de- ("away from") and via ("way, road"). The morpheme vi preserves the Latin root for "way," while -ous forms an adjective. Over time, "devious" evolved from its literal sense of "straying from the path" to its figurative meaning of "deceitful," reflecting a metaphorical divergence from moral or social norms.
The suspect took a devious route to avoid surveillance.
Her devious plan involved manipulating everyone’s trust.
The trail became devious, winding through dense forests.
Politicians are often accused of devious tactics.
He gave a devious smile, hinting at hidden intentions.