Someone who argues for an opposing or unpopular viewpoint, not necessarily because they believe it, but to test the strength of an argument or encourage debate.
This phrase comes from the Catholic Church's canonization process, established in 1587, where the 'advocatus diaboli' (devil's advocate) would argue against a candidate's sainthood by presenting evidence of their flaws or questioning miracles. This official role ensured thorough examination before declaring someone a saint.
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