contrivance

Definition from Wiktionary, a free dictionary

[edit] English

[edit] Etymology

contrive +‎ -ance

[edit] Pronunciation

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[edit] Noun

contrivance (plural contrivances)

1. a (mechanical) device to perform a certain task
2. a means, such as an elaborate plan or strategy, to accomplish a certain objective
   • 2005, Plato, Sophist. Translation by Lesley Brown. 266b.

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

3. something overly artful or artificial

[edit] Usage notes

See usage note at device.

[edit] Related terms

• contrive

[edit] Translations

[edit] External links

• contrivance in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, G. & C. Merriam, 1913
• contrivance in The Century Dictionary, The Century Co., New York, 1911