Contrivance definition

kən-trīvəns
contrivances
See word origin
Frequency:
The act, way, or power of contriving.
noun
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Something contrived, as an invention, mechanical device, or ingenious plan.
noun
3
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The definition of contrivance is the thing that causes something to happen.

An example of contrivance is the ability of a tornado to destroy buildings.

noun
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The act of contriving.
noun
2
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Something contrived, as a mechanical device or a clever plan.
noun
1
0
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A means, such as an elaborate plan or strategy, to accomplish a certain objective.
noun
1
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A (mechanical) device to perform a certain task.
noun
1
1
The state of being contrived.
noun
0
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Something overly artful or artificial.
noun
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Other Word Forms

Noun

Singular:
contrivance
Plural:
contrivances

Origin of contrivance

Contrivance Sentence Examples

  • Gian Galeazzos duchy was a masterpiece of mechanical contrivance, the creation of a scheming intellect and lawless will.

  • This is effected by raising up a small mound of rich compost around it, a contrivance which induces the graft to emit roots into the surface soil.

  • He married a daughter of Tarquinius and succeeded to the throne by the contrivance of his mother-in-law, Tanaquil, who was skilled in divination and foresaw his greatness.

  • There is good reason to believe that the system was as effectual in the prevention and punishment of crime and in the redress of wrongs as any other human contrivance has ever been.

  • The " pan " is now only used by prospectors, while the " cradle " and " tom " are practically confined to the Chinese; the sluice is considered to be the best contrivance for washing gold gravels.

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Words near contrivance in the Dictionary