device

1. A contrivance or an invention serving a particular purpose, especially a machine used to perform one or more relatively simple tasks.
2. a. A technique or means.
   b. A plan or scheme, especially a malign one.
3. A literary contrivance, such as parallelism or personification, used to achieve a particular effect.
4. A decorative design, figure, or pattern, as one used in embroidery. See Synonyms at figure.
5. A graphic symbol or motto, especially in heraldry.
6. Archaic The act, state, or power of devising.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English

Origin: , from Old French devis, division, wish

Origin: , and Old French devise, design

Origin: , both from Latin dīvīsus, dīvīsa

Origin: , past participle of dīvidere, to divide, separate; see divide