Contrivance

Quick meaning: Contrivance is a noun meaning A (mechanical) device to perform a certain task.

Meaning

A (mechanical) device to perform a certain task.

More Meanings

1. A means, such as an elaborate plan or strategy, to accomplish a certain objective.
2. Something overly artful or artificial.

Example Sentences

And along with each of these go their images, not the things themselves, — they too have come about by godlike contrivance.

The retrospective emphasis on these two specific stories—even their mention here, in the previous paragraph—has become a contrivance.

The Harry Hamlin character is a bit of a hypochondriac, a contrivance that exists for the sole purpose of bringing him into contact with the confused young doctor at the clinic.

I mean to give something as slight and inexpensive as possible; but I have been so long out of the way of these things, that I am really quite at a loss, and must throw myself on your kindness, as I hope you will be with me, and also Mr. and Mrs. Gooch. You must arrange in such a manner as not to blush for your own contrivances.

Word Forms

• contrivances

Synonyms for contrivance

Depending on context, synonyms include contraption, stratagem, dodge, gadget, appliance, widget.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include contraption, appliance, devisal, dodge, convenience, lash-up.

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