devious
definition
showing a skillful use of underhanded tactics to achieve goals
example
The politician's devious tactics allowed him to manipulate public opinion and secure an easy victory in the election.
synonyms
slycunningduplicitous
word origin — The word 'devious' originates from the Latin 'devius', meaning 'out of the way', from 'de-' (from) + 'via' (way).