Commentary: DEVICE[+contrivance][+purposeful][+instrument][+mechanical/+electrical/+chemical]
NOTE: implies a physical artifact of some kind
Examples:
Computers usually use mice and keyboards as input devices.
The man had an explosive device strapped to his body.
A life jacket is a basic flotation device.
The doctors were able to replace her leg with a prosthetic device.
Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1
Commentary: DEVICE[+form][+technique][+learned][+artistic][+literary/+theatrical/+graphical]
NOTE: implies a learned, publicly defined and recognized procedure or style
Examples:
Hyperbole and metonymy are both kinds of rhetorical devices.
The actors practiced the device of a stage whisper during their drama class.
These ancient painting do not manifest any devices for creating three-dimensional perspective.
Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 2
Commentary: DEVICE[+action][+plan][+scheme][+personal][+gimmick/+maneuver]
NOTE: implies a personal, idiosyncratic action (unlike Sense 2)
Examples:
Mary thinks John's chronic lateness to meetings is a manipulative device to control others.
She will resort to any device just to get attention.
Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 3
Commentary: DEVICE[+form][+pattern][+ornamental]
Examples:
Sally chose engraved swans and roses as decorative devices on her wedding invitations.
Their family's heraldic shields bear the device of the Flying Falcon.
Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 4, 5
Commentary: DEVICE[+state][+nature][+inclination]
NOTE: always in the plural, usually with 'left to one's own'
Examples:
If left to his own devices, John's son will just sit in front of the television all weekend.
The dogs will get into the garbage if left to their own devices.
Mappings:
WordNet 0.0 Sense Numbers: 2