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Definition of deviousness

deviousness

/ˈdiːviəsnəs/
de · vi · ous · ness
Adverb:deviously
•
Adjective:devious
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deviousness Lexical Profile

deviousness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality of being skillful in using underhanded, indirect, or deceitful tactics to achieve goals.

Example

"The auditor uncovered a pattern of financial deviousness that had gone unnoticed for years."

2

The state or quality of following a winding, roundabout, or indirect route or course.

Example

"The deviousness of the mountain trail forced the hikers to take twice as long to reach the summit."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for deviousness

• Nearby Words

devilry
devious
deviously
deviousness
devise
deviser
devoid

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from 'devious' and the noun-forming suffix '-ness'; 'devious' comes from Latin 'devius' (out of the way), a compound of 'de-' (off) and 'via' (way or road).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Deviousness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/deviousness
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