Hello, you have come here looking for the meaning of the word
the devil. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
the devil, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
the devil in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
the devil you have here. The definition of the word
the devil will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition of
the devil, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
English
Pronunciation
Adverb
the devil (not comparable)
- (idiomatic) Used to add emphasis to a question or statement.
What the devil are you doing here at this time of night?
1593, anonymous author, The Life and Death of Iacke Straw , Act I:VVhat is he an honeſt man? the deuill he is, he is the Parſon of the Towne,
You thinke ther’s no knauerie hid vnder a black gowne,
Find him in a pulpit but twiſe in the yeare,
And Ile find him fortie times in the ale-houſe taſting ſtrong beare.
1749, Henry Fielding, The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling:“Brother,” said she, “whatever message Mr Blifil thinks proper to send to my niece shall be delivered to her; and I suppose she will want no instructions to make a proper answer. I am convinced she will not refuse to see Mr Blifil at a proper time.”—“The devil she won’t!” answered the squire.
Synonyms
Derived terms
Translations
adds emphasis to a question or statement
Noun
the devil (uncountable)
- Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see the, devil.