In a deceitful, dishonest, or morally corrupt manner; by indirect or cunning means.
From devious (Latin 'deviosus,' from 'de-' meaning 'away from' and 'via' meaning 'road') plus -ly (adverbial suffix). Literally means 'away from the straight path.'
The root 'via' (Latin for 'road') appears throughout English in words like 'devious,' 'obviate,' and 'viaduct'—our language treats morality and honesty as journeys, with 'devious' meaning literally straying from the straight path.
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