What does devilishly mean?
Devilishly is an adverb formed from the adjective devilish, which derives from the noun devil. In contemporary English it functions primarily as an intensifier meaning extremely or fiendishly, most often modifying adjectives that describe difficulty, ingenuity, or allure: a devilishly difficult exam, a devilishly clever plot twist, a devilishly handsome leading man. A secondary, older sense means in the manner of a devil — wickedly or mischievously — though this use now tends to suggest playful roguishness rather than genuine evil. The word's connotations are therefore surprisingly positive for a term rooted in the demonic: pairing it with complimentary adjectives lends them a hint of charm, wit, and irresistible appeal. It appears in both British and American English with equal currency, and its vivid imagery makes it a favorite in journalism, fiction, and everyday speech alike.
To an extreme degree; fiendishly (used to intensify adjectives).
"The recipe calls for a devilishly hot chili sauce."
Most common sense in modern usage; typically paired with adjectives describing difficulty, cleverness, or attractiveness.
In a manner characteristic of a devil; wickedly or mischievously.
"She smiled devilishly as she hid his car keys."
Less frequent today; usually conveys playful mischief rather than genuine malevolence.
"Devilishly handsome" may be the only compliment in English that compares you to the Devil and gets away with it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of devilishly
Devilishly derives from devilish, the adjective form of devil, combined with the adverbial suffix -ly. The word devil itself traces back through Old English dēofol to Late Latin diabolus, from Greek diabolos, meaning 'slanderer' or 'accuser'. Devilish as an adjective was established in Old and Middle English, and the adverb devilishly emerged in later Middle or early Modern English. Cognates across the Germanic languages, such as German Teufel, share the same ultimate Latin and Greek ancestry.
Related word forms
How devilishly is actually used
The intensifying sense is by far the more common in modern usage and is largely neutral-to-positive in tone, frequently used with flattering adjectives like 'handsome', 'charming', and 'clever'. The literal 'wickedly' sense is rarer today and often carries a playful rather than genuinely sinister connotation. Common in both British and American English, with no significant regional difference.
Easily confused with devilishly
Devoutly means in a deeply religious or sincere manner, while devilishly means wickedly or extremely — nearly opposite connotations despite a superficial sound similarity.