an instrumentality invented for a particular purpose; the device is small enough to wear on your wrist; a device intended to conserve water'
something in an artistic work designed to achieve a particular effect
any clever maneuver; he would stoop to any device to win a point; it was a great sales gimmick; a cheap promotions gimmick for greedy businessmen
any ornamental pattern or design (as in embroidery)
an emblematic design (especially in heraldry); he was recognized by the device on his shield'