Definition

In a way that is not straightforward or honest, often involving trickery or deceit.

Example

He deviously plotted to take over the company without anyone noticing.

Conversation

Did you see how he played that last move in the game?

Yeah, it was really clever! He did it deviously though.

I know, right? It totally caught everyone off guard.

Exactly! Sometimes those sneaky tactics are the best.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Deviously → It is formed from "devious" (from Latin *devius*, meaning off the path or wandering) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "deviously" means in a manner that is not straightforward or is morally wrong, often implying cunning or deceit.

Memory Tip

Think of someone acting 'off the path' ('devious') and doing so 'in a manner' ('-ly') that is not straightforward. This helps you remember that 'deviously' refers to acting in a cunning or deceitful way.

Visually Confused Words