Contrivance meaning

kən-trī'vəns
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.

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Something contrived, as a mechanical device or a clever plan.
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The act of contriving.
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The state of being contrived.
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The act, way, or power of contriving.
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Something contrived, as an invention, mechanical device, or ingenious plan.
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A (mechanical) device to perform a certain task.
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A means, such as an elaborate plan or strategy, to accomplish a certain objective.
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Something overly artful or artificial.
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Origin of contrivance

contrive +‎ -ance

Sentence Examples

  • Sleep of Zeus, by the contrivance of Hera.

  • 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.

  • Any contrivance that serves to interrupt radiation, though it may not keep the temperature much above freezing, will be found sufficient.

  • 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.

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Words near contrivance in the Dictionary