Definition of: devise

(di·vīz′) v. ·vised, ·vis·ing v.t.
1. To form in the mind; invent; contrive; plan.
2. Law To transmit (real estate) by will.
3. Obs. To separate; distribute.
4. Obs. To imagine; guess.
—v.i.
5. To form a plan.
—noun Law
1. A gift of lands by will.
2. The act of bequeathing lands.
3. A will, or a clause in a will conveying real estate. [<OF deviser divide, distinguish, contrive <L dividere <dis- apart + videre see]
—de·vis′er noun