Devilry refers to wickedness, mischief, or morally reprehensible actions associated with demonic or evil forces. This noun is derived from the word "devil," which represents a supreme embodiment of evil or the archenemy of God in various religious beliefs and mythologies. It encompasses any acts or behavior that are motivated by malevolence, malice, or a desire to cause harm or chaos.
In its broadest sense, devilry portrays an intentionally cruel, dishonest, or perverse conduct, often characterized by a lack of empathy or concern for others. It implies a deliberate violation of ethical or moral principles, with the intention of sowing discord, spreading fear, or marring the well-being of others. Devilry may manifest in different forms, such as acts of deliberate deception, sadistic actions, or calculated manipulation.
The term devilry also encompasses supernatural or occult practices associated with evil spirits, witchcraft, or black magic. It refers to the summoning or invocation of demonic forces to cause harm, control others, or pursue personal gain at the expense of others.
Figuratively, devilry can be used to describe mischievous or cleverly cunning behavior that may not be explicitly malicious but still carries a sense of trickery or deceit. It encapsulates a sense of diabolical playfulness or cunning that can be seen as both intriguing and unsettling.
