'devise' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'deviser,' where 'de-' meant 'apart' and 'viser' meant 'to see.'

'deviser' transformed into the Middle English word 'devysen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'devise'.

Initially, it meant 'to divide or distribute,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to plan or invent by careful thought.'