verb

devise

dih-VYZE/dɪˈvaɪz/

To develop an idea or plan through thought.

The inventor devises a solution using a lever and wheels, sketching beside the prototype.

Inventor sketches a simple lever-and-wheel solution beside a working small wooden prototype, pencil drawing diagram only, active planning/invention clear.

Etymology

deviseOld Frenchdispose in portions, arrange, plan

Old French deviser joined the idea of disposing things in portions with arranging and planning. The selected meaning develops that arranging sense into working out a method or solution in the mind.

In context

Kings and Generals4:13

The King asked his most senior admiral, Don Alvaro de Bazan, Marquis of Santa Cruz to devise a plan for an invasion.

Spanish Armada: How England Defended Itself - Early Modern History

More examples

We need to devise a fair way to share the costs.
She devised a simple test to find the leak.
The children are devising their own game with homemade rules.

Forms

devise · devises · devised · devising

Similar words

formulate: Emphasizes putting an idea or plan into precise terms.
invent: Emphasizes creating something new rather than working out details.
plan: Focuses on deciding future actions, not necessarily inventing solutions.