1
as in gadget
an interesting and often novel device with a practical use
a new contrivance for cleaning computer keyboards
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2
as in invention
something (as a device) created for the first time through the use of the imagination
despite the many modern contrivances for saving time and labor, we seem to have less leisure and energy than ever before
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in imagination
the ability to form mental images of things that either are not physically present or have never been conceived or created by others
in that writer's hands, narrative contrivance can often deteriorate into pointless gimmickry
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of contrivance
But contrivances now become necessary to keep some of the new supporting figures in play in a story like this.
—
Alan Sepinwall, Rolling Stone, 11 May 2025
It should be replaced with a sprawling, soulless contrivance.
—Noah Rothman, National Review, 3 Apr. 2025
At one level, the film offers a comic commentary on the repetition of certain dramatic contrivances down the years.
—Adam Gopnik, New Yorker, 28 Apr. 2025
The builder of the applet has seeded into the applet the whole contrivance about the importance of video game playing.
—Lance Eliot, Forbes, 15 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for contrivance
Alan Sepinwall, Rolling Stone, 11 May 2025
It should be replaced with a sprawling, soulless contrivance.
—Noah Rothman, National Review, 3 Apr. 2025
At one level, the film offers a comic commentary on the repetition of certain dramatic contrivances down the years.
—Adam Gopnik, New Yorker, 28 Apr. 2025
The builder of the applet has seeded into the applet the whole contrivance about the importance of video game playing.
—Lance Eliot, Forbes, 15 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for contrivance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contrivance
Noun
-
The rechargeable gadget has only one button to power it on, shut it down, and adjust its speed setting.—
Clint Davis,
People.com,
30 May 2025
-
The chair also comes equipped with a cupholder, a gadget holder, and a pillow.—
Brandi Fuller,
Better Homes & Gardens,
27 May 2025
Noun
-
The invention of cities could be to blame for the proliferation of bedbugs (Cimex lectularius), according to a new study.—
Sara Hashemi,
Smithsonian Magazine,
28 May 2025
-
Similarly, if an A.I. system speeds the invention of a lifesaving medical device, that device must still be approved by the Food and Drug Administration.—
Joshua Rothman,
New Yorker,
27 May 2025
Noun
-
Theoretical physics has long held a special place in the scientific imagination — not just for its foundational questions, but for its strangeness.—
John Drake,
Forbes.com,
28 May 2025
-
Partnering with Hrithik Roshan is a step forward in realizing that vision, crafting a film where intensity meets imagination on a grand scale.—
Naman Ramachandran,
Variety,
28 May 2025
Noun
-
An early morning fire at Arlington Garden in Pasadena on May 21 destroyed the garden’s storage shed and all the tools, event furniture and other equipment stored inside, as well as the electricity that powered its extensive drip irrigation system.—
Jeanette Marantos,
Los Angeles Times,
1 June 2025
-
Opponents argue that non-lethal tools like bear-proof trash cans, fencing, and hazing should be used instead.—
Maria Davidson,
The Orlando Sentinel,
1 June 2025
Noun
-
Tailoring your rest strategy to your business stage boosts innovation and prevents burnout.—
Jodie Cook,
Forbes.com,
26 May 2025
-
Like the Europeans, Trump seems willing to take the tradeoff — less innovation and access to the latest drugs in exchange for lower prices.—
Allison Schrager,
Twin Cities,
25 May 2025
Noun
-
With interior chambers lined with perforated metal walls, the contraption somewhat resembles a fast-food restaurant’s deep fryer.—
Jessie Schiewe,
Los Angeles Times,
23 May 2025
-
The 2-story contraption is similar to machines that weigh potato chips or pet food, but more sensitive, according to Diltz.—
Eleanor Nash,
Kansas City Star,
22 May 2025
Noun
-
In his absence, the first-place Cubs have consistently found different ways to win games and reshape their pitching staff, demonstrating resilience and creativity.—
Patrick Mooney,
New York Times,
28 May 2025
-
Unlike technical skills that may become obsolete with technological advancements, durable skills such as communication, creativity and emotional intelligence remain consistently valuable across industries and roles.—
Heather V. MacArthur,
Forbes.com,
27 May 2025
Cite this Entry
“Contrivance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contrivance. Accessed 6 Jun. 2025.
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