devise
verb (used with object)
to contrive, plan, or elaborate; invent from existing principles or ideas.
had devised
-
past perfectof devise.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Entertainment outlet Variety, citing insiders, said Ellison had devised a five-year plan to move the company from California, starting with its Los Angeles headquarters.
From Barron's ● Aug. 11, 2026
Amissah and his Ghanaian crewmates had devised a secret rota to get some sleep.
From BBC ● Jun. 8, 2026
So the market may get a fourth competitor—though not the one regulators had devised.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 30, 2026
Papers and fabrics lined tables as she and her sister inspected a pair of entirely handmade wings they had devised from tubes, feathers and even car parts.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 14, 2025
Probably the one with scientific aptitude was Benjamin, the male who had devised new, important equipment for the Rehabilitation Center.
From "The Giver" by Lois Lowry
